Senator John Hoeven, U.S. Senator of North Dakota | Senator John Hoeven Official website
Senator John Hoeven, U.S. Senator of North Dakota | Senator John Hoeven Official website
Senators John Hoeven and Todd Young have introduced new legislation aimed at accelerating the development of baseload power projects to improve the reliability of the electrical grid. The Guaranteeing Reliability through the Interconnection of Dispatchable (GRID) Power Act seeks to address delays in project development by authorizing regional grid operators to prioritize baseload generation projects seeking interconnection agreements.
According to the senators, as of 2023, proposed projects face a median wait time of five years for an interconnection agreement, which significantly delays critical construction. The bill mandates that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) initiate rulemaking within 90 days of enactment and finalize rules within 180 days. Additionally, FERC would have a 60-day timeline to act on prioritized baseload generation projects.
Senator Hoeven criticized past policies under previous administrations, stating: “The reliability of the electric grid has been undermined for years by Green New Deal policies advanced under the Obama and Biden administrations... Our legislation seeks to reverse this trend.”
Senator Young emphasized the importance of cutting bureaucratic delays: “Bureaucratic delays are slowing critical power projects and threatening the reliability of our electric grid... This bill will strengthen our grid to promote American energy independence.”
Representative Troy Balderson also supports the legislation, highlighting issues with current processes: “Our interconnection queue is buckling under its own weight.” He believes this bill will help expedite essential projects needed for grid reliability.
Jason Bohrer from the Lignite Energy Council praised Senators Hoeven and Young's leadership on ensuring reliable power sources such as coal, natural gas, and nuclear power. Anne Bradbury from AXPC also commended their efforts, noting that it is crucial not to delay consideration of dispatchable power-generation projects.
Todd Snitchler from EPSA highlighted expected increases in electricity demand across regions due to advancements in AI and other sectors. He appreciated Congressman Balderson and Senators Hoeven and Young's commitment to electric grid reliability.
A companion bill was introduced in the House by Congressman Troy Balderson.
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