Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) Order 2222 requires the integration of distributed energy resources (DERs) into the transmission and distribution (T&D) system and will use the principles of transactive energy to move towards net-zero energy and carbon-free generation portfolios.

FERC 2222 will require a highly reliable and resilient T&D system best delivered by undergrounding the electric distribution system. Transactive energy will require a robust and modern two-way telecommunications network to carry vast amounts of sensor derived data from sources of generation and storage, field devices and equipment monitors as well as market pricing signals and demand projections. This paper will define FERC Order 2222 and transactive energy and demonstrate how undergrounding the electric distribution system can enhance electric system reliability and resiliency to deliver the benefits of the Order.