A strong and modernized infrastructure is essential to America’s prosperity and security. We advocate for policies that prioritize the development and protection of critical infrastructure, ensuring that our nation remains competitive and resilient. This includes advancing transportation systems, digital networks, artificial intelligence technologies, and state-of-the-art data centers to support economic growth and national security.
Our approach emphasizes cutting bureaucratic red tape and streamlining permitting processes to accelerate infrastructure projects and technological advancements. We support initiatives that enhance cybersecurity, safeguard vital resources, and promote innovation in emerging technologies like artificial intelligence. By investing in advanced AI capabilities and robust data centers, we aim to solidify America’s position as a global leader in innovation and infrastructure. These efforts will protect against foreign threats, enable breakthroughs in technology, and ensure a prosperous future for all Americans.
The Need to Improve American Critical Infrastructure
Did You Know?
Did you know that America’s critical infrastructure is the backbone of our prosperity and security? Modernizing aging systems like the electric grid, LNG pipelines, roads, bridges, and military installations, while expanding cutting-edge infrastructure like battery storage, broadband, and data centers, is essential to meet the growing demands of today’s economy. These investments not only power our nation but ensure resilience, efficiency, and long-term growth in every sector.
The Facts:
- Aging National Grid: The U.S. electric grid is over 50 years old in many areas, with outdated transmission lines prone to failure. Approximately 80% of power outages are caused by severe weather events, highlighting the need for resilient infrastructure to ensure reliability. Modernizing the grid could reduce outages and support growing energy demands from electric vehicles (EVs) and data centers.
- LNG Pipeline Expansion: The U.S. has over 3.3 million miles of pipeline infrastructure, much of which is aging and requires replacement. Expanding LNG pipelines is critical to meet rising electricity demand, as natural gas is increasingly used to power EVs, data centers, and homes. Without new pipelines, many communities lack access to affordable natural gas, driving up energy costs.
- Roads and Bridges: Over 40% of U.S. roads are in poor or mediocre condition, and 7.5% of bridges are classified as structurally deficient. Poor road conditions cost drivers billions annually in vehicle repairs and increased fuel consumption. Investing in modern roads and bridges would reduce congestion, improve safety, and support commerce.
- Data Center Energy Demand: Data centers consume vast amounts of energy, equivalent to powering 80,000 homes annually. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, energy demand from data centers is expected to double by 2030. Upgrading infrastructure to support these facilities is essential for economic growth and technological advancement.
- Battery Storage: Large-scale battery storage systems are crucial for balancing energy supply and demand, especially with the integration of renewable energy sources. The U.S. currently has 10 gigawatts of battery storage capacity, but experts estimate that 100 gigawatts will be needed by 2030 to ensure grid stability and resilience.
- Water Infrastructure: Over 240,000 water main breaks occur annually in the U.S., costing nearly $2.6 billion in repairs. Modernizing water systems would prevent disruptions to clean water access and reduce public health risks.
- Broadband and Digital Infrastructure: Over 14 million Americans in rural areas lack access to high-speed broadband. Improving broadband infrastructure would bridge the digital divide and enhance access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
- Military Base Resiliency: Many U.S. military installations face vulnerabilities due to aging infrastructure. Upgrading energy systems with microgrids and renewable sources would ensure mission-critical readiness and energy independence.
- Transportation Infrastructure: The U.S. has an estimated $176 billion backlog in public transit needs. Upgraded railways, ports, and highways would reduce congestion, increase efficiency, and support commerce.
- Energy Storage Systems: Expanding infrastructure for hydrogen production and carbon capture facilities is critical for long-term sustainability. For example, large-scale carbon capture technologies could store 1 billion tons of CO2 annually, contributing to climate goals while maintaining energy production.
