Implementing the President's plans for modernizing America's electricity infrastructure is one of the U.S. Department of Energy's top priorities. The National Transmission Grid Study made it clear that without dramatic improvements and upgrades over the next decade our nation's transmission system will fall short of the reliability standards our economy requires, and will result in higher costs to consumers. Modernization of America's electric system includes the application of new and existing technologies to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the entire electric system. Electric reliability and efficiency are affected by all four segments of the electricity value chain: generation, transmission, distribution, and end-use. Investing in only one area will not necessarily stimulate performance improvements across other segments of the integrated system. Increasing supply without improving transmission and distribution infrastructure, for example, may actually lead to more serious reliability concerns. With respect to electric transmission, reliability is enhanced when additional lines are added to the grid, proper maintenance occurs in a timely manner, and when grid operators are able to make adjustments, in real-time, to address fluctuations in system conditions, particularly during periods of peak demand. The Transmission program's mission specifically is to develop technologies and policy options that will contribute to maintaining and enhancing the reliability of the nation's electric power delivery system during the transition to competitive power markets. The Transmission Reliability Program is developing advanced technologies, including information technologies, software programs, and reliability/analysis tools to support grid reliability and efficient markets during this critical transition.