Reinforcing the Grid Against Extreme Weather Act of 2024
Impact
If enacted, HB 9362 could significantly alter state energy regulations by facilitating improved cooperation and resource sharing among regional electricity markets. This is expected to lead to an enhanced ability to respond to power outages and increased reliability of the electric supply across state lines. The bill's provisions on identifying and funding interregional transmission projects may also accelerate infrastructure investment, which is crucial for modernizing aging electrical systems and enhancing overall grid safety and performance.
Summary
House Bill 9362, titled the 'Reinforcing the Grid Against Extreme Weather Act of 2024', aims to enhance the resilience of the electric grid by directing the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to improve interregional electricity transfer capabilities. The bill mandates that FERC issue regulations within 24 months of enactment to establish consistent methods for calculating electricity transfer capabilities between adjacent transmission planning regions. The overarching goal is to ensure that these regions can reliably share electric resources, particularly during emergencies caused by extreme weather, cyberattacks, or other disruptions.
Contention
The proposed bill could face contention among various stakeholders including state regulators and local utility providers. Some may argue that the federal enhancements could undermine local control over energy decisions, while others may feel that the investment necessary for interregional projects could place financial burdens on local utilities. Furthermore, there could be environmental concerns related to expanding transmission infrastructure, particularly in sensitive areas.
A bill for an act relating to electric transmission lines and electric transmission owners, and including effective date and applicability provisions.(See HF 2551.)
A bill for an act relating to electric transmission lines and electric transmission owners, and including effective date and applicability provisions.(See SF 2372.)