Economic growth in many ADB developing member countries (DMCs) is constrained by electricity supplies, which in turn are constrained by inadequate transmission and distribution (T&D) systems. Renewable energy development in Asia and the Pacific is mostly focused on electricity generation and end uses. New renewable capacity and output cannot be readily brought online in a timely manner unless transmission capacity and efficiency increase rapidly. Geophysical resilience and cybersecurity are integral to 21st century T&D systems.

T&D systems need to become smarter, more flexible, more resilient to geophysical events (earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions), and need to be expanded as fast as possible. High-temperature low-sag (HTLS) conductors are one of the quickest and most cost-effective solutions for expanding T&D capacity and efficiency while minimizing environmental and social impacts.