arrow_back Back to App

Texas Grid Reliability: Mandating Interconnection and Federal Oversight for ERCOT

This Act mandates the interconnection of the independent Texas power grid (ERCOT) with neighboring grids (MISO, SPP, Western Interconnection) to enhance electricity supply reliability and prevent major outages. It establishes federal oversight over ERCOT and requires the construction of new transmission lines by 2035, prioritizing efficiency technologies and the use of degraded lands. For citizens, this means potentially more stable power supply and reduced risk of blackouts, especially during extreme weather events.
Key points
Grid Stability: Requires ERCOT to interconnect with major neighboring grids to ensure greater reliability and the ability to import power during emergencies.
Federal Oversight: Repeals existing exemptions for ERCOT, placing it under greater jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regarding reliability standards.
Infrastructure Investment: Mandates the construction of new transmission facilities by January 1, 2035, prioritizing the use of existing rights-of-way and degraded lands (e.g., brownfield sites, abandoned mine land).
Increased Funding: Increases the borrowing authority for the Transmission Facilitation Program from $2.5 billion to $13.5 billion to support the development of new transmission projects.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_S_3855
Sponsor: Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA]
Process start date: 2024-02-29
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
AI work logs for this document launch

OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Connect the Grid Act of 2024

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_S_3855.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2024-02-29.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Grid Stability: Requires ERCOT to interconnect with major neighboring grids to ensure greater reliability and the ability to import power during emergencies.
  • Federal Oversight: Repeals existing exemptions for ERCOT, placing it under greater jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regarding reliability standards.
  • Infrastructure Investment: Mandates the construction of new transmission facilities by January 1, 2035, prioritizing the use of existing rights-of-way and degraded lands (e.g., brownfield sites, abandoned mine land).
  • Increased Funding: Increases the borrowing authority for the Transmission Facilitation Program from $2.5 billion to $13.5 billion to support the development of new transmission projects.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Public Investments Economy Environment