The Strategic Role of 2D Nanomaterials in Grid Modernization

Published

January 16, 2026

Author(s)

Matthew Glasscott, James Burgess, Peter Byrley, Maria Fernanda Campa, Mark Griep, Alexander Kirk, Stephanie Mack, Birgit Schwenzer, Ryan Welch, Elisabeth Mansfield

Abstract

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials are poised to catalyze the modernization of today's electrical grid into the Resilient Smart Grid (RSG) of the future. This Perspective explores the role of existing and projected 2D nanomaterial-enabled technologies in energy generation, storage, transmission, and distribution. For energy generation, 2D nanomaterials may facilitate photovoltaic systems for conformable applications, and show promise to increase the conversion efficiency of thermoelectrics from the benchmark 5% to over 20%. Regarding energy storage, the tunability of these layered structures may enable new intercalation processes and species for beyond-lithium battery chemistries. In energy transmission and distribution, 2D nanomaterials are facilitating the creation of self-powered nanosensors and are being used to increase the conductivity of aluminum and copper composite current carriers to reduce ohmic losses. This perspective highlights research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) opportunities that could accelerate activities which prioritize 2D nanomaterial manufacturing at scale, stepwise integration of 2D nanomaterial-enabled technologies into the current grid paradigm, and a focus on life cycle assessment (LCA) at each step of the RDT&E ladder to evaluate material and process candidates for long-term national security and global resource stewardship. Collectively, the integration of 2D nanomaterials into these sectors through targeted RDT&E may catalyze the evolution of the grid into an intelligent, efficient RSG of the future.

Citation

ACS Energy Letters

Pub Type

Journals

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.5c04047

Local Download

Keywords

2D materials, energy, smart grid

Citation

Glasscott, M. , Burgess, J. , Byrley, P. , Campa, M. , Griep, M. , Kirk, A. , Mack, S. , Schwenzer, B. , Welch, R. and Mansfield, E. (2026), The Strategic Role of 2D Nanomaterials in Grid Modernization, ACS Energy Letters, [online], https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.5c04047, https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=960178 (Accessed January 17, 2026)