What are some consequences of aging infrastructure on the electrical grid?

The consequences of aging infrastructure on the electrical grid typically manifest as increased downtime and higher maintenance costs. As the infrastructure ages, components such as transformers, power lines, and substations may deteriorate, leading to more frequent failures and outages. This not only disrupts the supply of electricity to consumers but also necessitates more regular repairs and maintenance.

Higher maintenance costs result from the need for upgrades or replacements, as older equipment often requires more attention to keep operational. Additionally, the risk of breakdowns increases, leading to unplanned downtime. This has a cascading effect, causing disruptions in service for consumers and businesses, ultimately affecting overall efficiency and reliability of the electrical grid.

The other choices suggest improvements or benefits, which are generally not applicable when discussing the implications of aging infrastructure. Aging systems tend to lead to inefficiency rather than efficiency, and the associated costs increase rather than decrease, highlighting the challenges faced by utilities in maintaining and upgrading older systems.