The proliferation of distributed energy resources (DER) technologies across the US is providing grid operators with new mechanisms to address capacity constraints and replace strained and aging transmission and distribution (T&D) grid infrastructure. These non-wires alternatives (NWAs) use DER to provide grid relief sufficient to defer or replace more traditional upgrades. In the US, there is no universal definition for NWA. Navigant Research thus tracks grid operator projects that seek to deploy DER technologies and demand side management (DSM) programs for the purpose of deferring or replacing traditional grid infrastructure upgrades.

The Non-Wires Alternatives Tracker 3Q 2019 follows more than 100 completed and current projects fitting this definition in the US. Given the rise in exploration of NWA projects that began in the early‑to-mid 2010s, Navigant Research believes that these projects are poised to become increasingly used to avoid traditional poles, wires, and pipes upgrades to T&D systems. Information collected for the Tracker is used to explore trends within the emerging NWA market. The study explores regional market growth across the US and the various technologies included in NWAs for grid relief.