WASHINGTON-U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and Deputy Secretary of Energy James P. Danly issued the following statements after the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC or Commission) actions at its open meeting today.
The Commission announced parallel show cause orders under section 206 of the Federal Power Act, directing each of the six regional grid operators under its jurisdiction to justify or reform tariffs for data centers and other large energy users. The action aims to deliver the speed-to-power that is critical to supporting American innovation and national security while protecting ratepayers in response to the large load interconnection proceeding initiated at the direction of Secretary Wright.
“Thanks to President Trump, America is entering a period of unprecedented electricity demand driven by manufacturing, innovation, and economic growth. Meeting that demand requires building more energy infrastructure and bringing new power online faster,” said Energy Secretary Wright. “This Administration is working to remove barriers, accelerate development, and ensure America has the affordable, reliable, and secure energy needed to power a new era of prosperity while delivering on President Trump’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge.”
“FERC’s announcement today demonstrates Chairman Swett’s commitment to addressing Secretary Wright’s directive and delivering on President Trump’s goal of American energy dominance while maintaining affordability, reliability, and flexibility,” said Deputy Secretary Danly. “Today’s action is an important step toward improving interconnection processes, supporting flexible load and generation arrangements, and accelerating the addition of new generation. By increasing transparency and preventing unjust cost shifts onto existing customers, these reforms advance President Trump’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge while ensuring Americans continue to have access to affordable, reliable, and secure electricity.”