Affordable, Reliable, Clean Energy Security Act of 2025
Summary
The Affordable, Reliable, Clean Energy Security Act of 2025 directs federal departments and agencies to implement specific definitions for 'affordable,' 'reliable,' and 'clean' energy. It mandates the Secretary of Energy, in coordination with the Secretary of the Interior and the EPA Administrator, to identify and update regulations, grants, guidance, and policies to align with these definitions. The Act also requires the submission of reports to Congress detailing the incorporation of these definitions.
Expected Effects
This act aims to standardize the understanding and application of key energy terms across federal agencies. This could lead to a shift in energy policy and investment decisions, favoring sources that meet the defined criteria. The Act will likely impact how federal funds are allocated and how energy projects are evaluated.
Potential Benefits
- Provides clear definitions for 'affordable,' 'reliable,' and 'clean' energy, potentially leading to more consistent policy decisions.
- Could encourage investment in energy sources that meet the defined criteria, promoting energy security.
- Requires federal agencies to report on their progress in incorporating these definitions, increasing transparency.
- May lead to lower energy costs for consumers if 'affordable' energy sources are prioritized.
- Could stimulate innovation in energy technologies that meet the reliability and cleanliness standards.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The definitions provided may be too narrow or biased, potentially excluding certain energy sources that could contribute to a diverse energy portfolio.
- The reliability definition, requiring an Effective Load Carrying Capability of 60% or greater, may disadvantage renewable energy sources like solar and wind.
- Prioritizing hydrocarbon combustion as 'clean' under certain conditions could undermine efforts to transition to truly clean energy sources.
- The Act may create bureaucratic hurdles and delays as agencies update their regulations and policies.
- The focus on specific definitions may limit flexibility and innovation in addressing evolving energy challenges.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it seeks to promote energy security and affordability. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce, which could be interpreted to include energy policy. However, the specific definitions and mandates imposed on federal agencies could raise questions about the balance of power between Congress and the executive branch.
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).