Central ND News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak from North Dakota has raised concerns over America's grid reliability in a recent blog post for the Congressional Western Caucus. The piece highlights the challenges arising from increasing weather fluctuations and energy demands. Fedorchak has introduced H.Res. 290, a resolution aimed at addressing these grid reliability threats.

Fedorchak proposed a hypothetical situation to emphasize the risks of power outages. She noted, "Let’s imagine losing power in my state of North Dakota, where earlier this year, temperatures dropped to –22 degrees for many days in a row. That wouldn’t just be a small inconvenience—it would be deadly." She cited a warning from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation that two-thirds of the U.S., including the Midcontinent Independent System Operator region, is at elevated risk of blackouts.

According to Fedorchak, the U.S. is reducing reliable power generation sources faster than they are replaced, with many relying on weather-dependent sources like wind and solar. She stated, "The reason why is simple: we’re shutting down reliable power generation sources faster than we’re replacing them."

To address these issues, Fedorchak suggested eliminating bureaucratic obstacles for energy producers, re-evaluating federal energy incentives, implementing permitting reforms, and accelerating the construction of power generation facilities to meet the growing demands, including those from AI.

She stated, "Grid reliability is not a partisan issue—it’s an American issue," emphasizing the importance of acting swiftly to preserve America's position as a leading nation.

"Now, we must act," she urged, highlighting the resources and technology available to address the issue.