H.R.3628 - State Planning for Reliability and Affordability Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 3628, the State Planning for Reliability and Affordability Act, amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. It introduces a standard requiring states to consider reliable generation in their integrated resource planning. This bill mandates that state-regulated electric utilities ensure the reliable availability of electric energy over a 10-year period. This can be achieved through the operation or procurement of energy from reliable generation facilities.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely lead to states prioritizing energy sources capable of continuous operation for extended periods. This could incentivize investment in traditional power sources like natural gas or nuclear. It may also affect the adoption of renewable energy sources if they cannot meet the reliability standards outlined in the bill.
Potential Benefits
- Increased reliability of the electric grid, reducing the risk of blackouts and service interruptions.
- Ensuring a stable energy supply during emergencies and severe weather conditions.
- Potentially lower energy costs in the long term due to more efficient and reliable generation.
- Greater predictability for businesses and consumers regarding energy availability.
- Support for energy infrastructure development and maintenance.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased reliance on fossil fuels, hindering the transition to renewable energy sources.
- Possible higher upfront costs for implementing reliable generation facilities.
- Reduced flexibility for states to pursue innovative energy solutions tailored to their specific needs.
- Risk of overlooking the benefits of distributed generation and demand-side management strategies.
- Potential for regulatory burden on state utility commissions.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce, including the energy sector. By setting standards for state consideration of reliable generation, the bill aims to ensure a stable and dependable energy supply, which is vital for interstate commerce. The Tenth Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, but this bill does not appear to unduly infringe on state sovereignty as it provides a framework for state consideration rather than a mandate of specific energy sources.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).