Hubbell’s UHV Applications Focus on Grid Modernization at IEEE PES T&D 2026
Utility manufacturer Hubbell announced it will highlight how it creates critical infrastructure solutions during the 2026 IEEE PES T&D Conference & Expo in Chicago, as utilities look to modernize the grid and support electrification needs. Aimed at bringing utility professionals together, the IEEE PES T&D event features a robust technical program filled with sessions designed to showcase industry-related research and insights across all aspects of transmission and distribution.
Many utilities are reportedly rethinking long-standing operating models and reshoring manufacturing needs amid unprecedented load growth and tightening grid constraints. Regional Transmission Organization PJM confirmed the growing trend in electricity demand of 60% over the next 20 years in its latest Long-Term Load Forecast Report.
To address these national energy needs, Hubbell Incorporated will showcase its portfolio that specifically relates to the transmission and distribution challenges surrounding ultra-high voltage (UHV), 765 kV applications in unique mechanical, electrical, and environmental circumstances.
Only a fraction of the U.S. electric transmission network built in the late 1960s, which consists of roughly 700,000 circuit miles, is reportedly 765-kV. Hubbell says its 765 kV‑ready products include line surge arresters, critical for protecting electrical systems from voltage spikes and surges, motor-operated air-insulated switchgear (AIS), and its LineDefender single‑phase recloser, which is designed to automatically clear temporary faults and improve lateral line protection.
These lists of applications, Hubbell says, will help utilities plan and build to deliver reliability and maximize system performance. As far as safety, the Connecticut-based manufacturer says it has equipped its recloser product with a new SCADA-ready module that aims to communicate the device’s state and fault events rather than solely relying on field inspection for results.
"Hubbell's long‑standing relationships across the utility industry reflect our commitment to engineering excellence, responsiveness, and continuous innovation,” said Gregory Gumbs, segment president of Hubbell Utility Solutions, in a statement. “That foundation allows us to support critical infrastructure across transmission and distribution with confidence and consistency."
The newest Hubbell acquisition, DMC Power, which was acquired in Oct. 2025, will also highlight high‑voltage connectors and other solutions centered on end‑to‑end capabilities across a range of utility applications.
