RE:RE:Interesting Article on EarthGridLooking more into EarthGrid, note that they have been granted utility status with a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) in 37 States, with more on the way:
https://earthgrid.io/earthgrid-utiltity-status/ By registering as a utility and obtaining a CPCN, EarthGrid has an increased likelihood of being granted Right of Way (ROW) permits along state and county roads for underground conduits, utility lines, etc. Having ROW access can mean the difference between a project being completed quickly — or never getting out of the chute.
State departments of transportation (e.g., DOT, Caltrans, etc.) consider companies with a CPCN more favorably. They are more likely to grant ROW access for utility lines, as long as the applications for ROW do not unreasonably interfere with the operation of the affected or adjacent transportation corridor.