Search for members, bills, votes, committees, hearings, and nominations
The Reliable Power Act would require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to review and comment on proposed regulations from other federal agencies that could affect the reliability of the nation's bulk-power system. Under the bill, agencies such as the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection Agency would need to consider FERC's feedback before finalizing rules that impact electricity generation or transmission. If FERC determines that a proposed rule could jeopardize grid reliability, the agency could not finalize that rule without addressing FERC's concerns.
The bill also directs the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) to conduct annual long-term assessments of whether the power grid has sufficient electric generation capacity to maintain reliability. If NERC identifies a potential shortfall in generation capacity, it must notify FERC, which would then alert other relevant federal agencies that grid reliability is at risk.
Proponents argue the bill would protect grid reliability during a period of rapidly increasing electricity demand and aging power infrastructure. The Congressional Budget Office estimates implementation would cost FERC less than $10 million annually, with costs recovered through user fees charged to utilities and grid operators. The bill passed the House in December 2025 with a vote of 225-203 and is now under consideration by the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
AI-generated summary
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Dec 18, 2025
Received in the Senate and Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Dec 18, 2025
