Strengthening the Reliability and Security of the United States Electric Grid

What it means

Directs the Energy Department to streamline processes for electric grid emergencies. Requires development of a methodology to identify at-risk regions with insufficient power reserves, and creates a protocol to protect critical power generation resources from closure or conversion.

Expected impact

• Enhanced reliability of the national electric grid through better monitoring and protection of critical power generation resources
• Prevention of power shortages by requiring the Department of Energy to identify regions with inadequate reserve margins
• Improved energy security by ensuring power plants over 50 megawatts cannot be retired or converted if doing so would reduce generation capacity
• Potential preservation of traditional fuel sources like coal and nuclear plants that might otherwise be retired
• Greater federal oversight of regional electricity markets and generation planning