# Understanding electrical traffic jams in the power grid

## TL;DR

This paper shows how adding more connections to a power grid can sometimes make it less efficient, similar to traffic congestion.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates Braess’ paradox in power grids using both lab experiments and real-world simulations.

## Key findings

- Adding new transmission lines can lead to increased congestion in power grids.
- The findings were validated in both lab-scale and real-world grid simulations.

## Abstract

In a recent work published in Nature
Communications, Dr. Benjamin Schäfer and colleagues demonstrate the effect of Braess’ paradox in power grids, both in a lab-scale mimic and through real-world simulations of the German power network. The results lay the groundwork for more sustainable grid development.