H.R.603 - Reinforcing the Grid Against Extreme Weather Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.603, the Reinforcing the Grid Against Extreme Weather Act of 2025, directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to improve interregional electricity transfer capability between adjacent transmission planning regions. This involves establishing regulations for calculating transfer capabilities, determining minimum transfer capabilities to ensure reliability during extreme events, and identifying/allocating costs for necessary interregional transmission projects. The bill also mandates the creation of plans by transmission planning entities and requires FERC to publish annual reports on the implementation of the Act.
Expected Effects
The bill aims to enhance the resilience of the U.S. electric grid against extreme weather events, physical events, and cyberattacks. This will be achieved by improving the transfer capability between different regions. Ultimately, this should lead to a more reliable and secure electricity supply for consumers.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced grid reliability and resilience during extreme weather events, physical events, and cyberattacks.
- Improved access to lower-cost electricity generation and electricity generating facilities with no direct emissions of greenhouse gases.
- Reduced congestion and power losses in the transmission system.
- Increased competition and market liquidity in electricity markets.
- Optimized use of existing transmission assets and rights of way.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased costs associated with the construction and modification of transmission facilities.
- Regulatory burden on transmission planning entities to comply with new FERC regulations and reporting requirements.
- Possible delays in project implementation due to regulatory hurdles and disputes over cost allocation.
- Risk of overbuilding transmission infrastructure if minimum transfer capabilities are set too high.
- Potential for unintended consequences or unforeseen challenges in implementing the new regulations.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. Because electricity transmission involves the movement of energy across state lines, federal regulation of this activity falls under the purview of the Commerce Clause. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific individual rights or liberties protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).