SECURE Grid Act (S. 4166)

Summary

Makes states update their energy security plans to protect local power systems from physical attacks, cyber threats, and supply chain problems.

What problem does this solve?

State energy plans often overlook the security of local power grids, leaving communities at risk of outages from attacks or bad weather. This bill requires states to include local grid security in their plans, making the power supply safer and more reliable.

What does this bill do?

Updates state energy security plans

Requires state plans to address physical and cybersecurity threats to local power distribution systems, which are parts of the grid operating at 100 kilovolts or less.

Mandates a review of state plans

Directs the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report to Congress by September 30, 2030, on how effective the updated state plans have been.

Extends energy security program

Changes the expiration date for the state energy security plan program, extending it to September 30, 2031.

Includes equipment suppliers in planning

Adds suppliers of electricity generation, transmission, and distribution equipment to the groups that states must coordinate with for their security plans.

Who does this affect?

State governments
Electric utility companies
Energy equipment suppliers

What is the real world impact?

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Strengthens local power grid security

Aims to protect local electrical systems from growing threats like physical attacks, severe weather, and cyberattacks by making sure states have a plan to deal with them.

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Increases federal oversight of state energy planning

Requires states to submit security plans and mandates a federal report on how well the plans are working, giving the federal government more insight into state-level energy security.

When does this start?

This bill would take effect when it becomes law, and it sets specific deadlines for future actions.

GAO report deadline

The Government Accountability Office must submit a report on the effectiveness of state energy security plans by September 30, 2030.

Program expiration date

The requirement for state energy security plans under this section will expire on September 30, 2031.