NE Washington News

Today, Congressman Bob Latta, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy, led a hearing titled "Keeping the Lights On: Examining the State of Regional Grid Reliability." The focus was on the need for increased energy production to meet growing demands from consumers and various industries.

Chairman Latta emphasized, “Today’s grid operators made it clear that America needs more energy to be produced to keep up with our growing needs not just for consumers, but for the many small businesses, manufacturers, agriculture industry, and medical facilities that employ them.” He highlighted the importance of addressing reliability challenges in the electric industry.

Congressman Troy Balderson discussed concerns regarding the Biden EPA’s Clean Power Plan 2.0. He stated, “Last year, PJM, ERCOT, SPP, and MISO jointly filed an amicus brief with the DC Circuit Court against the Biden EPA’s Clean Power Plan 2.0.” Pablo Vegas responded by noting that over 14,000 megawatts of existing coal plants could be at risk under this plan.

Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks referred to NERC's recommendations in their 2024 long-term reliability assessment report. She questioned measures being taken to prevent premature retirement of carbon-based fuel generators. Manu Asthana replied that market price signals and collaboration with regulators are essential to maintain these generators.

Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger posed a scenario involving a prolonged wind drought. Jennifer Curran explained that during such events, resources like coal and gas generation are utilized to compensate for unavailable wind power.