Would it be possible to have multiple smaller grids, still interconnected, but without being kept in sync?
I'm not sure if what I'm saying is possible or efficient, but converting AC to DC, transmitting the energy, then converting DC to AC so the frequency becomes irrelevant.
> Wide area synchronous networks improve reliability and permit the pooling of resources. Also, they can level out the load, which reduces the required generating capacity, allow more environmentally-friendly power to be employed; and allow more diverse power generation schemes and permit economies of scale. [0]
[0] https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wide_area_synchronous_grid
HVDC of course has the disadvantage of extra conversion equipment. HV circuit breakers are also significantly more complex as an arc will form as long as current is flowing. With AC this happens at the zero automatically, nothing like this with DC.
I am amazed the grid goes all the way to Iraq
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Synchronous_grid_of_Continenta...
In general, interconnection allows for the sharing of generators. My 30 year old coal unit might not need to run because I can buy electricity from your cheaper gas plant.