State Planning for Reliability and Affordability Act
Summary
The "State Planning for Reliability and Affordability Act" amends the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978. It mandates that states employing integrated resource planning must ensure the reliable availability of electric energy over a 10-year period. This is achieved through maintaining or procuring energy from reliable generation facilities.
Expected Effects
The Act will require states to establish measures within their integrated resource planning to guarantee reliable electricity. It defines a 'reliable generation facility' as one capable of continuous operation for at least 30 days, even during emergencies. A GAO report is also mandated to assess the effectiveness of prior integrated resource planning efforts.
Potential Benefits
- Enhanced reliability of electric power, reducing the risk of blackouts.
- Increased energy security by ensuring a stable supply of electricity.
- Potential for long-term cost savings through efficient resource planning.
- Promotion of diverse energy sources, including those capable of continuous operation.
- Improved resilience of the energy grid during severe weather events.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased short-term costs as states implement new planning measures.
- Possible limitations on the adoption of renewable energy sources that may not meet the 'reliable generation facility' definition.
- Increased regulatory burden on state utility authorities.
- Risk of favoring established energy providers over innovative or emerging technologies.
- Potential for conflicts between state and federal energy policies.
Constitutional Alignment
The Act appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) by regulating interstate commerce related to electricity. It also touches on the General Welfare Clause (Preamble) by aiming to ensure reliable and affordable energy for citizens. The Tenth Amendment could be relevant, as it reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states, potentially raising questions about the extent of federal mandates on state energy planning.
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).