Expediting Electric Transmission Siting and Enhancing Grid Reliability (FASTER Act).
This law aims to significantly accelerate the construction of critical electric transmission lines by streamlining and centralizing the federal permitting process under the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). It mandates the negotiation of "Community Benefit Agreements" (CBAs) with local groups and labor unions, a requirement linked to the ability to use eminent domain for right-of-way acquisition. Citizens will see faster infrastructure development, potentially leading to more stable energy, but must engage actively in CBA negotiations to secure local benefits.
Key points
FERC is designated as the lead agency for coordinating all federal authorizations for major transmission projects, aiming to complete the review process within a maximum of five years.
Introduction of Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs): Project sponsors must negotiate specific, measurable benefits with local communities and labor groups to demonstrate good faith engagement, a prerequisite for exercising eminent domain.
New revenue sharing model for federal land use fees: A portion of fees from rights-of-way on federal lands will be distributed to states and counties, and 30-35% will fund a new Federal Land Electric Energy Transmission Conservation Fund.
Expired
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