DOE recently released a draft of the 2026 National Transmission Needs Study (Needs Study) and opened a 60-day public comment period. The Needs Study report shows that there is a pressing need for additional electric transmission infrastructure due to load growth from data centers, expanding domestic manufacturing, large industrial loads, and a growing economy.

DOE is hosting a webinar specifically geared to Tribal organizations on Tuesday, Aug. 11, 2026, from 1 to 2 p.m. ET. Registration is required.

The Needs Study identifies key national needs that can inform investments and planning decisions. DOE is inviting feedback on this draft report from local communities, Tribal Nations, states, and regional reliability entities, as well as the general public, by opening a public comment period and hosting in-person roundtables in the summer of 2026 across the country. DOE will review comments received and incorporate them into the final study as appropriate. Direct public feedback is critical to bridge the gap between DOE’s analytical research and the dynamic, localized energy demands currently shaping the nation’s grid.

Comments on this draft study are due Sept. 7, 2026.