Faster Electric Grid Expansion: Streamlining Permits and Ensuring Community Benefits.
This law aims to accelerate the construction of major interstate electric transmission lines, potentially leading to greater energy reliability and lower consumer costs. It grants the federal regulator (FERC) expanded authority to approve projects if states delay or deny them, while simultaneously requiring project sponsors to negotiate legally binding Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs) with affected local groups and landowners.
Key points
Expedited Permits: The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) can override state delays or denials to speed up the approval of critical interstate power lines, aiming to complete the entire review process within three years.
Landowner Protections and Community Deals: Utilities must demonstrate "good faith efforts" to engage landowners and negotiate Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs) detailing specific benefits (e.g., jobs, local investment) before exercising the right of eminent domain.
Conservation Funding: A portion of the revenue generated from transmission lines on federal land will fund a new conservation fund dedicated to restoring wildlife habitats and improving public access in affected areas.
Expired
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