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On Tuesday, Chairman of the Energy Subcommittee of Energy and Commerce, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5), and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-7) introduced the bipartisan Securing Community Upgrades for a Resilient Grid Act (SECURE Grid Act), legislation that empowers states to fully assess risks to the electric grid from extreme weather, physical and cyber threats, and other vulnerabilities. Congressman Latta is the co-chair of the Grid Innovation Caucus.
"We must ensure America’s electric grid is secure and resilient for families and businesses across the country.From extreme weather to physical and cyberattacks by adversaries that could disrupt our power supply, protecting the grid is a national priority. That’s why I introduced the SECURE Grid Act, to make sure the right steps are taken to strengthen and safeguard our energy infrastructure. I thank Rep. Matsui for co-leading this bipartisan legislation so, together, we can ensure the American people can rely on a resilient grid and never have to worry about keeping the lights on,” said Congressman Latta.
"Americans depend on reliable, affordable electricity for every aspect of our lives. Californians know all too well the need to be prepared and respond rapidly to wildfire, atmospheric rivers, and other natural disasters. At the same time, the threat of cyber-attacks continues to grow as more and more of our infrastructure becomes digitally interconnected. That's why I'm introducing the SECURE Grid Act to provide State officials with the support and funding they need to anticipate and respond to any and all threats to our electric grid. I’m proud to work with Congressman Latta to modernize our electric grid and keep all Americans safe,” said Congresswoman Matsui.
“Schneider Electric applauds Chairman Latta and Congresswoman Matsui for their bipartisan leadership in introducing the SECURE Grid Act in the U.S. By reauthorizing State Energy Security Plans and expanding them to include local distribution systems, this legislation addresses a critical ‘last‑mile’ gap in the national energy strategy. A reliable, future-proofed grid– bolstered by innovative energy technologies – is essential to the economy and U.S. national security, and these plans will help states identify vulnerabilities and strengthen infrastructure amidst growing energy demand, and sophisticated cyber and physical threats," said Jeannie Salo, Chief Public Policy Officer, Schneider Electric.
“The power grid is the backbone of the U.S. economy, and electrical manufacturers are delivering essential technology solutions to modernize the grid, meet rising energy demand, and manage cyber risk. The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) is pleased to support theSECURE Grid Act because it requires states to adopt a holistic view of grid security and readiness, including throughout generation, transmission, and local distribution systems. A comprehensive understanding of supply chains for the critical grid components that feed these systems can enhance grid security and reduce risk while encouraging modernization and effectiveness,” said National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) Senior Director, Government RelationsPeter Ferrell.
"NASEO strongly endorses the bipartisan SECURE Grid Act and we applaudChairmanLatta and Representative Matsui for introducing this critical legislation. The bill will make our Nation safer by supporting cybersecurity, physical security, local electric distribution systems, and the enhancement and implementation of state energy security plans," said David Terry, President of the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO).
Background on the SECURE Grid Act:
States must submit a State Energy Security Plan (SESP) annually to receive funds from the State Energy Program. State Energy Offices use these funds to implement energy security and resiliency plans, invest in domestic energy resources, reduce energy waste, pilot innovative energy projects, and more. A state's SESP allows it to recognize, respond to, and mitigate weaknesses in its energy infrastructure.
While SESPs are currently required to consider broad vulnerabilities, including physical and cyber-attacks, theSECURE Grid Act adds necessary detailed data to these reports, requiring states to consider:
- threats posed to local distribution facilities and supporting grid infrastructure, like distribution substations;
- the risks posed by increasing grid demand;
- available technologies to mitigate threats to energy distribution and rising grid demand;
- the distinctions between weather-related threats and threats from a physical act of violence;
- the utility of public-private partnerships in meeting energy security needs;
- the availability of innovative financing models that may save taxpayer dollars and increase access to digital grid technology; and
- the role of vendors in maintaining a secure, reliable, and resilient energy distribution system.
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