Delaware County Review

U.S. Representative Troy Balderson has reintroduced legislation aimed at expediting power generation projects that enhance the reliability of the electric grid. Senators John Hoeven and Todd Young have introduced identical legislation in the Senate.

The proposed Guaranteeing Reliability through the Interconnection of Dispatchable (GRID) Power Act would allow certain projects to bypass the congested interconnection queue, which in 2023 saw a median wait time of five years for project approval. This delay has hindered critical infrastructure development.

"Our interconnection queue is buckling under its own weight," said Balderson. He emphasized that transmission providers are struggling with a growing backlog, adding years to an already lengthy process. The legislation seeks to empower grid operators to prioritize essential projects that ensure grid reliability and meet increasing energy demands.

Senator Hoeven criticized past administrations' policies, stating, "The reliability of the electric grid has been undermined for years by Green New Deal policies advanced under the Obama and Biden administrations." He added that these policies have led to an unstable grid and increased power shortages. The GRID Power Act aims to reverse this trend by prioritizing baseload power generation projects for approval.

Senator Young highlighted bureaucratic delays as a threat to grid reliability: "We need to cut through red tape to get more power online faster." He believes this bill will strengthen American energy independence and economic growth.

The current interconnection queue is overwhelmed with projects seeking benefits from green energy credits provided by the Biden Administration. These weather-dependent projects make up 97% of all submissions but lack dispatchability needed during peak demand periods.

Todd Snitcher, President & CEO of EPSA, expressed support for the bill: "Grid operators should be given significant flexibility... including accelerated interconnection for critical resources." Anne Bradbury from AXPC also praised efforts to prioritize reliable power-generation projects using natural gas.

Rob Brundrett from OOGA supports Balderson's initiative, emphasizing its potential benefits for Ohio's energy consumers. Steve Stivers from Ohio Chamber of Commerce sees it as crucial for improving resilience in energy supply amid technological advancements.

Ryan Augsburger from OMA noted ongoing debates over generation adequacy within PJM Interconnection's region and supported queue reform efforts like those proposed by Balderson’s bill.

The GRID Power Act mandates FERC develop rules allowing Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs) and Independent System Operators (ISOs) to fast-track critical projects while maintaining feasibility studies and public engagement processes before final approvals. FERC would need to review proposals within 60 days potentially reducing total approval times significantly upon enactment starting rulemaking within 90 days finalizing rules within 180 days after enactment.