H.R. 7977

[Congressional Bills 119th Congress]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
[H.R. 7977 Introduced in House (IH)]

<DOC>

119th CONGRESS
2d Session
H. R. 7977

To provide relief from high energy bills, and for other purposes.

_______________________________________________________________________

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

March 18, 2026

Mr. Casten (for himself, Mr. Levin, Ms. Ansari, Ms. Balint, Ms. 
Barragan, Mr. Bell, Mr. Beyer, Ms. Bonamici, Ms. Brownley, Ms. 
Budzinski, Ms. Bynum, Mr. Carbajal, Mr. Carson, Mr. Case, Ms. Castor of 
Florida, Mrs. Cherfilus-McCormick, Ms. Chu, Mr. Cisneros, Ms. Clarke of 
New York, Mr. Cleaver, Mr. Clyburn, Mr. Cohen, Ms. Craig, Ms. Dean of 
Pennsylvania, Ms. DelBene, Mr. DeSaulnier, Ms. Dexter, Mrs. Dingell, 
Mr. Doggett, Ms. Elfreth, Mr. Espaillat, Mr. Evans of Pennsylvania, 
Mrs. Foushee, Mr. Frost, Mr. Garcia of Illinois, Mr. Goldman of New 
York, Mrs. Grijalva, Mr. Hernandez, Mr. Horsford, Ms. Hoyle of Oregon, 
Mr. Huffman, Ms. Jacobs, Ms. Jayapal, Mr. Johnson of Georgia, Ms. 
Kamlager-Dove, Ms. Kelly of Illinois, Mr. Krishnamoorthi, Mr. Landsman, 
Mr. Latimer, Ms. Lee of Pennsylvania, Ms. Lee of Nevada, Ms. Leger 
Fernandez, Mr. Lieu, Ms. Lofgren, Mr. Lynch, Mr. Magaziner, Mr. 
Mannion, Ms. Matsui, Ms. McBride, Mrs. McClain Delaney, Ms. McClellan, 
Ms. McCollum, Ms. McDonald Rivet, Mr. McGarvey, Mr. McGovern, Mr. 
Menefee, Ms. Meng, Mr. Mfume, Mr. Min, Mr. Morelle, Ms. Morrison, Mr. 
Moulton, Mr. Mrvan, Mr. Mullin, Mr. Nadler, Mr. Neguse, Ms. Norton, Ms. 
Ocasio-Cortez, Mr. Olszewski, Ms. Omar, Ms. Pettersen, Ms. Pingree, Mr. 
Pocan, Mr. Quigley, Mrs. Ramirez, Ms. Rivas, Ms. Ross, Mr. Ruiz, Ms. 
Salinas, Ms. Scanlon, Ms. Schakowsky, Mr. Schneider, Ms. Scholten, Mr. 
Scott of Virginia, Mr. David Scott of Georgia, Ms. Simon, Mr. Smith of 
Washington, Mr. Sorensen, Ms. Stansbury, Mr. Stanton, Ms. Stevens, Mr. 
Subramanyam, Mr. Suozzi, Mr. Takano, Mr. Thanedar, Mr. Thompson of 
Mississippi, Ms. Titus, Ms. Tlaib, Ms. Tokuda, Mr. Tonko, Mr. Torres of 
New York, Mrs. Trahan, Mr. Tran, Ms. Underwood, Mr. Vargas, Mr. 
Vasquez, Mr. Vindman, Mr. Walkinshaw, Ms. Waters, Mrs. Watson Coleman, 
Mr. Whitesides, and Ms. Wilson of Florida) introduced the following 
bill; which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and 
in addition to the Committees on Agriculture, Ways and Means, Natural 
Resources, Financial Services, Transportation and Infrastructure, 
Education and Workforce, Oversight and Government Reform, and Science, 
Space, and Technology, for a period to be subsequently determined by 
the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall 
within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned

_______________________________________________________________________

A BILL

To provide relief from high energy bills, and for other purposes.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the 
United States of America in Congress assembled,

SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS.

(a) Short Title.--This Act may be cited as the ``Energy Bills 
Relief Act''.
(b) Table of Contents.--The table of contents for this Act is as 
follows:

Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents.
TITLE I--REVERSING ATTACKS ON LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY

Subtitle A--Restoring Tax Credits for Low-Cost, Clean Energy

Sec. 101. Repealing H.R. 1 rollbacks of low-cost, clean energy tax 
credits.
Subtitle B--Stopping Administration Overreach Against Low-Cost, Clean 
Energy

Sec. 111. Reversing grant terminations for low-cost, clean energy.
Sec. 112. Prevention of administrative abuse of Federal permitting of 
low-cost, clean energy.
Sec. 113. Ratepayer protection against uneconomic power generation.
TITLE II--CUTTING ENERGY BILLS FOR AMERICAN FAMILIES

Sec. 201. Lowering household heating and cooling bills.
Sec. 202. Home weatherization.
Sec. 203. Reflective roofing.
Sec. 204. Domestic natural gas price protection.
Sec. 205. Rural energy savings.
TITLE III--UNCLOGGING THE LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY BOTTLENECK

Sec. 301. Expedited generator interconnection.
Sec. 302. Advanced transmission technologies.
Sec. 303. Electricity transformers.
Sec. 304. Streamlining permitting of distributed energy.
Sec. 305. Community solar.
Sec. 306. Low-cost, clean energy in United States territories.
TITLE IV--BUILDING OUT A 21ST CENTURY ELECTRICITY GRID

Subtitle A--Amendments to the Federal Power Act

Sec. 401. Definitions.
Sec. 402. Interregional electric transmission planning.
Sec. 403. Allocation of costs of electric transmission facilities of 
national significance.
Sec. 404. Minimum interregional transfer capability.
Sec. 405. Increased FERC transmission siting authority.
Sec. 406. Prohibiting expensive, unjust queue jumping.
Subtitle B--Tax and Grants

Sec. 411. Transmission investment tax credit.
Sec. 412. Reduced wildfire risks to the grid.
Subtitle C--Transmission Governance Reform

Sec. 421. FERC staffing.
Sec. 422. FERC fee assessments.
Sec. 423. State public utility commission capacity grants.
Sec. 424. Independent transmission monitors.
Sec. 425. Aggregator bidding into organized wholesale electric markets.
Sec. 426. RTO and ISO governance and participation.
Sec. 427. Modernized grid data and analytics.
TITLE V--DEPLOYING LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY RESPONSIBLY ON PUBLIC LANDS 
AND WATERS

Subtitle A--Public Land Renewable Energy Development

Sec. 501. Public land renewable energy development.
Sec. 502. Geothermal cost recovery.
Sec. 503. Geothermal Gold Book development.
Subtitle B--Offshore Renewable Deployment

Sec. 511. Responsible development of offshore renewable energy.
Sec. 512. Compensation for offshore renewable energy projects.
Sec. 513. Interoperability of offshore electric transmission 
infrastructure.
TITLE VI--PROTECTING CONSUMERS IN ELECTRICITY REGULATION

Sec. 601. Utility earnings tied to ratepayer benefits.
Sec. 602. Consumer protection from energy market manipulation.
Sec. 603. Avoiding cost shifts onto families.
Sec. 604. True costs and value of energy for economic and public 
benefit.
Sec. 605. Grid performance disclosure.
TITLE VII--COLLABORATING WITH COMMUNITIES FOR SUCCESSFUL DEPLOYMENT

Sec. 701. Federal permitting capacity.
Sec. 702. Interagency environmental data system.
Sec. 703. Timely public release of NEPA documentation.
Sec. 704. Community benefits agreements.
Sec. 705. Intervenor funding at FERC Office of Public Participation.
Sec. 706. Senior community engagement officers and Tribal community 
engagement officers.
Sec. 707. Capacity grants for permitting and community engagement.

TITLE I--REVERSING ATTACKS ON LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY

Subtitle A--Restoring Tax Credits for Low-cost, Clean Energy

SEC. 101. REPEALING H.R. 1 ROLLBACKS OF LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY TAX 
CREDITS.

(a) Repeal.--Subchapter A of chapter 5 of subtitle A of title VII 
of Public Law 119-21 is hereby repealed.
(b) Amendments.--Each provision of law amended by such subchapter 
is amended to read as such provision would read if such subchapter had 
never been enacted.
(c) Effects.--Each amendment made by subsection (b) shall take 
effect as if included in the provision of such subchapter to which such 
amendment relates.

Subtitle B--Stopping Administration Overreach Against Low-Cost, Clean 
Energy

SEC. 111. REVERSING GRANT TERMINATIONS FOR LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY.

(a) The Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, 
and the Department of Transportation may not terminate a Federal award 
in part or its entirety, require a renegotiation or rescoping of the 
Federal award, or decide not to fund a future budget period of a 
Federal award on the basis that the Federal award no longer effectuates 
the program goals or agency priorities, including pursuant to section 
200.340(a)(4) of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations.
(b) Any Federal award that was terminated, renegotiated, rescoped, 
or not progressed to future budget periods by the Department of Energy, 
the Environmental Protection Agency, or the Department of 
Transportation after January 19, 2025, for no longer effectuating the 
program goals or agency priorities, including pursuant to section 
200.340(a)(4) of title 2, Code of Federal Regulations, shall be 
reinstated by such agency or entity under its previous terms and 
conditions.

SEC. 112. PREVENTION OF ADMINISTRATIVE ABUSE OF FEDERAL PERMITTING OF 
LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY.

(a) Requirement for Parity.--The Council on Environmental Quality, 
in consultation with all applicable Federal agencies, shall ensure, via 
subsection (b), that the processing of applications, authorizations, or 
related approvals as well as denials and the activities referenced in 
subsection (g) for wind, solar, storage, or related electric 
transmission projects on Federal and non-Federal land and waters is not 
subject to more restrictive or burdensome procedural requirements than 
those applied to applications for oil, gas, or coal projects on Federal 
and non-Federal land and waters and does not bias Federal decision 
making in favor of oil, gas, or coal projects, including--
(1) requirements for elevated or discretionary review by 
the Secretary, Deputy Secretary, other political appointees, or 
career employees;
(2) additional documentation or review not required for 
oil, gas, or coal projects;
(3) withholding, delaying, or reversing decisions by local 
or regional entities for wind, solar, storage, or related 
electric transmission projects for reasons not applied to oil, 
gas or coal projects; and
(4) denial of routine administrative approvals, such as 
testing permits or cost recovery agreements, or notices to 
proceed once all criteria have been met for approval, based on 
underlying technology.
(b) Policy Review.--
(1) Review.--Not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Council on Environmental 
Quality, in consultation with all applicable Federal agencies, 
shall--
(A) review all applicable regulations, guidance 
documents, policy manuals, departmental directives, 
Secretarial orders, and other procedures regarding 
energy development; and
(B) identify any provision of such regulations, 
documents, manuals, directives, orders, and procedures 
not otherwise required in statute that do not comply 
with the requirements in subsection (a).
(2) Rescission.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the applicable Secretary or 
Administrator shall rescind or amend as necessary any provision 
identified under subsection (a).
(c) Accountability in Permitting.--Not later than 180 days after 
the date of enactment of this section and annually thereafter, the 
Comptroller General of the United States shall submit to Congress a 
report on actions taken by all applicable Federal agencies related to 
permitting for energy projects, which shall include--
(1) an analysis of the procedures used by all applicable 
Federal agencies for processing applications, authorizations, 
or approvals for wind, solar, storage, or related electric 
transmission projects on Federal and non-Federal land and 
waters and how those procedures compare to those used for oil, 
gas, or coal projects;
(2) an analysis of the number of days applicable Federal 
agencies took during the previous calendar year to process 
applications, authorizations or approvals for wind, solar, 
storage, or related electric transmission projects on Federal 
and non-Federal land and waters compared to the number of days 
to process applications, authorizations or approvals for oil, 
gas, or coal projects; and
(3) an assessment of whether applicable Federal agencies 
treated wind, solar, storage, or related electric transmission 
projects the same as oil, gas, or coal projects during the 
previous calendar year.
(d) Ensuring Energy Security.--
(1) Limitation on issuance of certain approvals.--Beginning 
on the date of enactment of this Act--
(A) the Secretary of the Interior may not approve a 
permit to extract coal or to drill on an onshore oil or 
gas lease on Federal land unless an approval for 
onshore wind or solar development has been issued 
during the 120-day period ending on the date of the 
issuance of the approval for oil or gas development; 
and
(B) the Secretary of the Interior may not approve a 
permit to drill on an offshore oil or gas lease on the 
Outer Continental Shelf under section 2(a) of the Outer 
Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331(a)) unless 
an approval for offshore wind development on the Outer 
Continental Shelf of similar scope has been issued 
during the 120-day period ending on the date of the 
issuance of the approval for oil or gas development.
(2) Rules of construction.--Nothing in this section shall 
be construed to require the Secretary to approve applications 
for a permit to drill for onshore or offshore oil or gas 
development or a permit to extract coal.
(e) Timely Federal Review.--
(1) Deadlines to complete environmental reviews under 
nepa.--With respect to any proposed wind, solar, storage, or 
related electric transmission development on Federal land or 
waters, including the Outer Continental Shelf, requiring an 
environmental impact statement or environmental assessment 
pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the Secretary shall complete such 
environmental impact statement or environmental assessment 
within the deadlines established under section 107(g) of the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336a(g)).
(2) Deadline for determination of right-of-way.--Not later 
than 180 days after completion of the environmental impact 
statement or environmental assessment, as applicable, for wind, 
solar, storage, or related electric transmission development on 
Federal land or waters, including the Outer Continental Shelf, 
the Secretary shall issue a right-of-way, except in the event 
that a no action alternative is selected.
(f) Judicial Review.--
(1) Reviewability.--
(A) In general.--If a Federal agency suspends 
construction or operations of a wind, solar, storage, 
or related electric transmission project, or otherwise 
prevents a wind, solar, storage, or related electric 
transmission project from commencing and completing 
construction, operation, or related ancillary 
activities, including by revoking, rescinding, 
withdrawing, terminating, suspending, amending, 
altering, or otherwise rendering ineffective any 
authorization for a project or the final environmental 
document the authorization relies on, shall be 
considered final agency action subject to judicial 
review under chapter 7 of title 5, United States Code.
(B) Venue.--A person seeking judicial review for an 
action described in subparagraph (A) shall obtain 
review of such action in the United States Court of 
Appeals for any circuit wherein the project is located.
(2) Timing.--For any claim brought regarding an action in 
paragraph (A), the court of competent jurisdiction shall issue 
a decision for such challenge--
(A) as expeditiously as practicable; and
(B) not later than the date that is 30 days after 
the date on which the civil action is filed, unless the 
court determines that additional time is required in 
the interests of justice.
(3) Applicability.--This section shall apply to any actions 
in paragraph (1) that occurred after January 19, 2025.
(g) Ensuring Fairness on Federal Lands and Waters.--
(1) FLPMA amendments.--The Federal Land Policy and 
Management Act of 1976 is amended--
(A) in section 103(c) (43 U.S.C. 1702(c)), by 
striking ``historical values;'' and inserting 
``historical values, including the generation, 
transmission, and storage of renewable energy sources 
such as wind, solar, and geothermal energy;''; and
(B) in section 302 (43 U.S.C. 1732), by inserting 
at the end ``(e) The Secretary shall manage the public 
lands to facilitate the generation, transmission, and 
storage of renewable energy resources, consistent with 
the principles of multiple use and sustained yield 
under this Act. For the purposes of this Act, such 
activities are deemed to be consistent with multiple-
use management.''.
(2) OCSLA amendments.--Section 8(p) of the Outer 
Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1337(p)) is amended by 
striking paragraph (4) and inserting the following:
``(4) Requirements.--The Secretary shall ensure that any 
activity under this subsection is carried out in a manner that 
provides for a balance of--
``(A) safety;
``(B) the protection of the environment;
``(C) the prevention of waste;
``(D) the conservation of the natural resources of 
the outer Continental Shelf;
``(E) coordination with relevant Federal agencies 
and Tribal, State, and local governments;
``(F) the protection of the national security 
interests of the United States, including energy 
security;
``(G) the protection of correlative rights in the 
outer Continental Shelf, including the energy 
generation potential of other offshore renewable energy 
leases;
``(H) a fair return to the United States for any 
lease, easement, or right-of-way under this subsection;
``(I) prevention of unreasonable interference with 
other uses of the exclusive economic zone, the high 
seas, and the territorial seas, as determined by the 
Secretary;
``(J) consideration of--
``(i) the location of, and any schedule 
relating to, a lease, easement, or right-of-way 
for an area of the outer Continental Shelf; and
``(ii) any other use of the sea or seabed, 
including use for a fishery or fishery survey, 
a sealane, a regional coastal observing system 
or other scientific observation platform such 
as a buoy, a potential site of a deepwater 
port, or navigation;
``(K) public notice and comment on any proposal 
submitted for a lease, easement, or right-of-way under 
this subsection;
``(L) the oversight, inspection, research, 
monitoring, and enforcement relating to a lease, 
easement, or right-of-way under this subsection; and
``(M) the consideration of any applicable Federal, 
Tribal, and State renewable energy mandates, targets, 
and goals.''.

SEC. 113. RATEPAYER PROTECTION AGAINST UNECONOMIC POWER GENERATION.

Section 202(c) of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824a) is 
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1)--
(A) by striking ``Commission'' after ``During the 
continuance of any war in which the United States is 
engaged, or whenever the'' and inserting ``Secretary of 
Energy (referred to in this subsection as the 
`Secretary')'';
(B) by striking ``exists'' after ``determines that 
an emergency'' and inserting ``currently exists or will 
occur within 6 months'';
(C) by striking ``Commission'' after ``or other 
causes, the'' and inserting ``Secretary'';
(D) by inserting ``As part of the order, the 
Secretary shall explain why such order best meets the 
emergency and serves the public interest.'' after 
``serve the public interest.''; and
(E) by striking ``Commission'' after ``carrying out 
such order, the'' and inserting ``Federal Energy 
Regulatory Commission (referred to in this subsection 
as the `Commission')'';
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking ``Commission'' after ``law or 
regulation, the'' and inserting ``Secretary''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following: ``The 
Secretary shall state in such orders--
``(A) that are in effect for 96 or fewer hours, the 
specific hours that are necessary to meet the emergency 
and serve the public interest; or
``(B) that are in effect for more than 96 hours, 
the specific methodology by which such hours that are 
necessary to meet the emergency and serve the public 
interest were determined.''.
(3) in paragraph (4)--
(A) by striking ``Commission'' wherever it appears 
and inserting ``Secretary'';
(B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``that may 
result in a conflict with a requirement of any Federal, 
State, or local environmental law or regulation'';
(C) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by inserting ``that may result in a 
conflict with a requirement of any Federal, 
State, or local environmental law or 
regulation'' after ``In renewing or reissuing 
an order under subparagraph (A)''; and
(ii) by inserting ``The Secretary shall 
make available to the public the primary 
Federal agency consulted.'' after 
``practicable.''; and
(D) by adding at the end--
``(C) Before renewing or reissuing an order under 
subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall undertake a 
robust study of available alternatives that would 
reduce the net costs as compared to renewing or 
reissuing the order.
``(D) In the event the Secretary issues a renewed 
or reissued order under this paragraph, a petition for 
judicial review of such renewed or reissued order may 
be filed under section 313(b) without filing a request 
for rehearing or otherwise complying with any 
requirements of section 313(a).''; and
(4) by adding at the end the following:
``(6)(A) Not later than 30 days after the date on which the 
Secretary issues an order under paragraph (1), the Commission 
shall publish--
``(i) estimates of the costs that are 
expected to be incurred by any electric utility 
and customers of such electric utility as a 
result of the order; and
``(ii) other expected impacts of the order.
``(B) Not later than 60 days after the date on 
which the Secretary issues an order under paragraph 
(1), an electric utility that has been, or is expected 
to be, affected as a result of the order, including any 
electric utility described in subparagraph (A)(i), 
shall provide in writing to customers of the electric 
utility a description of the costs incurred due to the 
order, or costs expected to be incurred as a result of 
the order, including any information relevant to the 
electric utility and the customers of the electric 
utility published under subparagraph (A).''.

TITLE II--CUTTING ENERGY BILLS FOR AMERICAN FAMILIES

SEC. 201. LOWERING HOUSEHOLD HEATING AND COOLING BILLS.

(a) Funding.--Section 2602 of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance 
Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 8621) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``section 2607A)'' and inserting 
``section 2604(e), 2605(u), 2607A, 2607B, or 2607C)''; 
and
(B) by striking ``$2,000,000,000'' and all that 
follows and inserting ``such sums as may be necessary, 
including such sums as may be necessary to enable the 
States to assist all households that meet the 
eligibility requirements established under this title 
and to enable States to implement home energy 
affordability measures described in section 
2605(b)(3).'';
(2) in subsection (e), in the first sentence--
(A) by striking ``in each fiscal year'';
(B) by striking ``$600,000,000'' and inserting 
``$2,000,000,000 for fiscal year 2026, and 
$2,000,000,000 plus such additional sums as may be 
necessary for each fiscal year thereafter,''; and
(C) by inserting ``, or arising from a major 
disaster, as defined in section 2604(e)(1)'' before the 
period at the end; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(f) There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out section 
2607C, including making grants under that section, $1,000,000,000 for 
fiscal year 2026, and $1,000,000,000 plus such additional sums as may 
be necessary for each fiscal year thereafter.''.
(b) Definitions.--Section 2603 of the Low-Income Home Energy 
Assistance Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 8622) is amended--
(1) by redesignating paragraphs (4) through (6), (7) 
through (10), and (11), as paragraphs (6) through (8), (10) 
through (13), and (15), respectively;
(2) by inserting after paragraph (3) the following:
``(4) The terms `extreme heat' and `extreme cold', used 
with respect to a period, means a period in which there is an 
increased risk of--
``(A) heat-related or cold-related, respectively, 
illness, hospitalization, or death; or
``(B) failures or energy shutoffs of home cooling 
or heating, respectively.
``(5) The term `HEAP coordinator' means an employee--
``(A) who administers a program funded under 
section 2602(b); and
``(B) whose salary is paid, partly or wholly, with 
funds made available under that section.'';
(3) by inserting after paragraph (8), as so redesignated, 
the following:
``(9) The term `local coordinating agency' means any local 
organization or local office that receives funds under section 
2602(b) to perform customer intake, or approval of benefits, on 
behalf of the State agency.''; and
(4) by inserting after paragraph (13), as so redesignated, 
the following:
``(14) The term `State agency' means any State agency that 
administers the program funded under section 2602(b).''.
(c) Assistance for Emergencies and Major Disasters, Including 
Extreme Heat and Cold.--Section 2604 of the Low-Income Home Energy 
Assistance Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 8623) is amended--
(1) in subsection (a)(1)(B), by striking ``section 
2605(b)(9)(B)'' and inserting ``section 2605(b)(10)(B)''; and
(2) in subsection (e)--
(A) by striking ``(e)'' and inserting the 
following:
``(e)(1) In this subsection:
``(A) The term `covered household' means an eligible 
household in an area where the President, or the Secretary, as 
the case may be, has declared or determined the occurrence of a 
natural disaster, emergency, or major disaster.
``(B) The term `major disaster' means--
``(i) a major disaster or emergency declared under 
section 401 or 501, respectively, of the Robert T. 
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act 
(42 U.S.C. 5170, 5191);
``(ii) a public health emergency determined under 
section 319 of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 
247d); or
``(iii) a period of extreme heat or extreme cold, 
as determined by the Secretary.
``(2)'';
(B) in paragraph (2), as so designated, by striking 
``natural disaster or other emergency involved'' and 
inserting ``natural disaster, emergency, or major 
disaster involved''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) Upon a declaration or a determination of a natural 
disaster, emergency, or major disaster, for an area, the 
Secretary and the Administrator of the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency shall, to the extent practicable, provide 
heating or cooling assistance through such an allotment to a 
State for covered households in that area.
``(4) To receive assistance under this subsection, the 
State that has jurisdiction over the covered households shall 
provide assurances to the Secretary that the State--
``(A) will not preclude a household that receives 
heating assistance or cooling assistance under this 
title during a calendar year, on the basis of obtaining 
that assistance, from receiving cooling assistance or 
heating assistance, respectively, under this title 
during that year;
``(B) will not require a household to indicate that 
a household member has a medical need for assistance 
under this title, to be eligible for that assistance; 
and
``(C) will allow use of such assistance for 
purposes for which heating or cooling assistance is 
available under the program funded under section 
2602(b), including for providing energy-efficient air 
conditioners, and other equipment needed for home 
cooling, to eligible households.''.
(d) Eligible Households.--Section 2605 of the Low-Income Home 
Energy Assistance Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 8624) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(A), by striking ``paragraph 
(5)'' and inserting ``paragraph (6)'';
(B) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph 
(A), by inserting ``, subject to subsection 
(c)(1)(A),'' after ``only'';
(ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking 
``(B)'' and all that follows through clause 
(ii) and inserting the following:
``(B) households with incomes which do not exceed 
the greater of--
``(i) an amount equal to 250 percent of the 
poverty level; or
``(ii) an amount equal to 80 percent of the 
State median income,''; and
(iii) in the matter following subparagraph 
(B)--
(I) by striking ``may give'' and 
inserting ``shall give''; and
(II) by inserting before the 
semicolon the following: ``, and the 
State may not exclude a household from 
eligibility on the basis of citizenship 
of 1 or more of the household 
members'';
(C) by redesignating paragraphs (3) through (16) as 
paragraphs (4) through (17), respectively;
(D) by inserting after paragraph (2) the following:
``(3) Energy burden limits.--To the extent practicable, the 
Secretary shall work with States using funding under section 
2602(b) (supplemented by funding available through State-level 
energy programs, utility affordability initiatives, or other 
mechanisms as determined by the State in consultation with the 
Secretary) to implement home energy affordability measures--
``(A) to ensure that no household eligible under 
paragraph (2) experiences an energy burden for which 
the expenditures of the household for home energy 
exceed 3 percent of household income; and
``(B) to prioritize the further reduction of energy 
burdens for such eligible households with the lowest 
incomes.''; and
(E) in subparagraph (B) of paragraph (10), as so 
redesignated, by striking ``paragraph (16)'' and 
inserting ``paragraph (17)'';
(2) in subsection (c)(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``assistance 
to be provided under this title, including criteria'' 
and inserting ``assistance to be provided under this 
title, including--
``(i) certifying that the State and local 
coordinating agencies in the State--
``(I) shall, to the greatest extent 
possible, use data sharing agreements 
with Federal and State low-income 
assistance programs, including the 
supplemental nutrition assistance 
program established under the Food and 
Nutrition Act of 2008 (7 U.S.C. 2011 et 
seq.), the Medicaid program established 
under title XIX of the Social Security 
Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.), and the 
supplemental security income program 
established under title XVI of the 
Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1381 et 
seq.), to verify eligibility;
``(II) shall implement simplified 
re-enrollment procedures for households 
with fixed incomes or households 
already determined to be eligible under 
other Federal and State low-income 
assistance programs, to reduce 
administrative burdens on applicants 
and agencies;
``(III) shall not require 
applicants to submit proof of 
citizenship to establish status as an 
eligible household; and
``(IV) if neither the verification 
process described in subclause (I) nor 
the re-enrollment process described in 
subclause (II) apply to a household, 
shall allow applicants to self-attest 
that the applicants meet the criteria 
established under this title for an 
eligible household, to the extent 
necessary to facilitate access to 
assistance and prevent undue hardship 
for applicants; and
``(ii) describing criteria.'';
(B) in subparagraph (E), by striking ``paragraph 
(5)'' and inserting ``paragraph (6)''; and
(C) in subparagraph (F), by striking ``clauses (3), 
(4), (5), (6), (7), (8), (10), (12), (13), and (15) of 
subsection (b)'' and inserting ``paragraphs (4), (5), 
(6), (7), (8), (9), (11), (13), (14), and (16) of 
subsection (b)'';
(3) in subsection (e), by striking ``subsection (b)(10)'' 
and inserting ``subsection (b)(11)'';
(4) in subsection (f), by adding at the end the following:
``(3) For purposes of section 401(c), and the remainder of 
title IV, of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity 
Reconciliation Act of 1996 (8 U.S.C. 1611(a), 1601 et seq.), 
assistance under this title shall not be considered to be a 
Federal public benefit.''; and
(5) in subsection (j), by striking ``the State may apply'' 
and inserting ``the State may, subject to subsection 
(c)(1)(A)(i), apply''.
(e) Conditions for Funding.--Section 2605 of the Low-Income Home 
Energy Assistance Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 8624) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)(C), by inserting before the 
semicolon the following: ``, using toxics-free 
materials that do not contain asthmagens or respiratory 
sensitizers, giving priority in the use of those funds 
under this subparagraph, to the greatest extent 
practicable, to supporting emergency home repairs that 
foster energy efficiency, decarbonization, and 
household resilience, including through beneficial 
electrification of heating and cooling'';
(B) in paragraph (8), as so redesignated--
(i) in subparagraph (C), by striking 
``and'' at the end; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(E) ensure that--
``(i) the home energy supplier will not 
charge late fees for any payment, by a 
household receiving assistance through the 
program funded under section 2602(b), during 
the period beginning 6 months before and ending 
6 months after a date on which the supplier 
receives funds through the program for the 
household; and
``(ii) if the supplier receives funds 
through the program for such a household and 
charged such late fees during that period, the 
supplier shall refund the fees to the household 
not later than 7 days after the date the 
supplier receives the funds;
``(F) ensure that the home energy supplier will not 
shut off home energy from a household that received 
assistance through the program funded under section 
2602(b), within the 2-year period beginning on the date 
the household received the assistance;
``(G) ensure that the home energy supplier, in 
return for receiving funds through the program funded 
under section 2602(b)--
``(i) will provide to the State data on 
households that have not paid their home energy 
bills, to enable the State and the supplier to 
carry out coordinated outreach concerning 
assistance available through the program funded 
under section 2602(b); and
``(ii) will, when sending a notice of late 
payments to such households, include 
information on such assistance, on how to 
access such assistance through the program, and 
on eligibility criteria for the program; and
``(H) ensure that the home energy supplier will, 
not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
the Energy Bills Relief Act, in return for receiving 
assistance under the program funded under section 
2602(b) and through a partnership with the State, offer 
a low-income energy affordability payment program;''; 
and
(C) in paragraph (10), as so redesignated--
(i) in subparagraph (A)--
(I) by striking ``10 percent'' and 
inserting ``15 percent''; and
(II) by striking ``and'' at the 
end; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) in planning and administering that program, 
the State shall use the portion of the amount described 
in subparagraph (A), that exceeds 10 percent of the 
funds described in subparagraph (A), to expand the 
State program funded under section 2602(b) so that the 
State operates the program on a year-round basis; and
``(D) in planning and administering that program, 
the State--
``(i) shall make technological changes to 
allow, not later than 5 years after the date of 
enactment of the Energy Bills Relief Act, for 
online submission of applications for 
assistance through that program; and
``(ii) shall, to the extent practicable--
``(I) conduct outreach activities, 
including activities to increase 
enrollment as described in subsection 
(p);
``(II) ensure that all HEAP 
coordinators in the State receive 
wages, for administration funded under 
section 2602(b), at not less than the 
greater of $15 per hour or the 
applicable Federal, State, or local 
minimum wage rate;
``(III) conduct training for HEAP 
coordinators, State agency staff, and 
community partners on best practices 
for outreach, application processing, 
and assisting eligible households;
``(IV) as needed, conduct outreach 
relating to the program funded under 
section 2602(b) to rural electric 
cooperatives, home energy suppliers 
owned by a political subdivision of a 
State, such as a municipally owned 
electric utility, and home energy 
suppliers owned by any agency, 
authority, corporation, or 
instrumentality of a political 
subdivision of a State; and
``(V) ensure autoenrollment of 
eligible households into the program 
funded under section 2602(b), and in 
the process document any potential 
barriers to autoenrollment that need to 
be clarified or otherwise addressed at 
the Federal level;'';
(2) in subsection (c)(1)--
(A) in subparagraph (G), by striking ``and'' at the 
end;
(B) by redesignating subparagraph (H) as 
subparagraph (I); and
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (G) the 
following:
``(H) describes how the State will expand the State program 
funded under section 2602(b) so that the State operates the 
program on a year-round basis in accordance with subsection 
(b)(10)(C) and the measures the State has taken so far to carry 
out that expansion; and''; and
(3) by adding at the end the following:
``(m) The Secretary shall allow, to the greatest extent possible, 
eligible households to obtain assistance with minimal administrative 
burden, by carrying out subsection (c)(1)(A)(i).
``(n) The Secretary shall, by grant or contract, provide for a 
study that examines the rates of home energy shutoffs and assessments 
of late fees among eligible households, relative to those rates for 
households that are not eligible households, over a period of several 
years.
``(o) The Secretary shall provide technical assistance to States to 
support partnerships described in subsection (b)(8)(H).
``(p)(1) The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of 
Education, shall issue guidance for use of funds for administrative 
activities described in subsection (b)(10) to increase, through 
partnerships with elementary schools, secondary schools, and local 
educational agencies, enrollment in the program funded under section 
2602(b) among eligible households that include children and that have 
high energy burdens.
``(2) The Secretary shall issue guidance for use by States on 
outreach relating to assistance through the program funded under 
section 2602(b) to high-risk individuals, with relevant medical 
conditions, that benefit from the use of medical equipment that 
requires electricity, including a ventilator, an oxygen concentrator, 
or another medical device that requires electricity.
``(3) The Secretary shall issue guidance for use by States on how 
to ensure that eligible households are aware of additional grants, tax 
credits, and rebates, made available under Public Law 117-169, or an 
amendment made by such law.
``(q) Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the 
Energy Bills Relief Act, the Secretary shall require each State 
receiving funds under this title, including allotments under subsection 
(a) or (e) of section 2604, to develop and update as necessary, an 
action plan for a period of extreme heat, which shall describe how the 
State will use its allotments under this title to assist eligible 
households in covering cooling costs and mitigating heat-related health 
risks.
``(r) Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the 
Energy Bills Relief Act, the Secretary shall conduct a review of 
eligibility criteria for assistance under this title and identify 
additional vulnerable populations to include under such criteria, such 
as pregnant women, children, and individuals with medical conditions 
exacerbated by a period of extreme heat.
``(s) The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, 
shall require State energy offices receiving Federal funds under this 
title to develop plans--
``(1) to retrofit low-income housing stock to adapt to 
rising temperatures and address environmental hazards, 
including--
``(A) deploying highly efficient cooling systems, 
including heat pumps;
``(B) expanding weatherization and passive cooling 
strategies;
``(C) addressing structural and health hazards, 
including mold, lead, asbestos, and pest infections; 
and
``(D) ensuring that necessary electrical panel and 
wiring upgrades are completed to support the 
installation of cooling systems and energy efficiency 
improvements; and
``(2) to assess and adapt existing (as of the date of 
development of the plan) shutoff policies to protect all 
households while considering the impact on energy affordability 
and energy grid reliability.
``(t)(1) Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the 
Energy Bills Relief Act, the Secretary, in consultation with the 
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, shall submit a report to 
Congress that--
``(A) identifies safe residential temperature standards for 
federally assisted dwelling units, considering risks of periods 
of extreme heat and extreme cold and regional climate 
variations; and
``(B) proposes strategies to ensure compliance with the 
standards, including permitting covered utility allowances to 
be used for cooling assistance where feasible, taking into 
account regional climate variations and housing stock 
differences.
``(2) In this subsection, the term `covered utility allowance' 
means a utility allowance--
``(A) applicable to public housing dwelling units under 
section 3 of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 U.S.C. 
1437a); or
``(B) under the housing choice voucher program under 
section 8(o)(2)(D) of the United States Housing Act of 1937 (42 
U.S.C. 1437f(o)(2)(D)).''.
(f) Weatherization.--Section 2605(k) of the Low-Income Home Energy 
Assistance Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 8624(k)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``15 percent'' and 
inserting ``25 percent''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (A), in the matter preceding 
clause (i)--
(i) by striking ``subparagraph (B)'' and 
inserting ``subparagraph (C)''; and
(ii) by striking ``the greater of 25 
percent'' and inserting ``a portion equal to 
the greater of 35 percent'';
(B) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as 
subparagraph (C); and
(C) by inserting after subparagraph (A) the 
following:
``(B) The State--
``(i) shall, to the extent practicable--
``(I) use the portion described in subparagraph (A) 
for energy-related home repair that reduces dependence 
on fossil fuel energy sources; and
``(II) use the portion to facilitate the use of 
funds made available under section 2602(b) to increase 
the participation of eligible households in community 
solar programs, or to otherwise increase access to and 
ownership of distributed renewable energy 
infrastructure among eligible households; and
``(ii) shall if possible give the highest priority to using 
the portion for home repair that replaces appliances that rely 
on fossil fuels with appliances that use electric heating or 
cooling technology, powered by renewable energy.''.
(g) Home Energy Payment Arrears Data Collection.--Section 2605 of 
the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 8624), as 
amended by subsection (e), is further amended by adding at the end the 
following:
``(u)(1)(A) The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of 
Energy, shall develop a standardized template for States and home 
energy suppliers to use to track and report data on eligible households 
in arrears in home energy payments, including data on the related fees 
and disconnections for such households.
``(B) The template developed under subparagraph (A) shall--
``(i) include a definition of an eligible household in 
arrears, with respect to home energy payments, as an eligible 
household that has not made payment on a home energy bill for 
more than 60 to 90 days, as determined by the State agency or 
local coordinating agency, unless otherwise specified by State 
law;
``(ii) include metrics on related disconnections, late 
fees, reconnections, and arrearage balances for eligible 
households; and
``(iii) align with existing (as of the date of the 
development) Federal and State reporting mechanisms where 
applicable.
``(2) Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment of the 
Energy Bills Relief Act, the Secretary shall, in consultation with the 
Secretary of Energy, issue guidance on best practices for States 
(including through partnerships with home energy suppliers) to pay for 
home energy payment arrearages with assistance provided through the 
program funded under section 2602(b), including by paying for such 
arrearages at the time of dissemination of assistance through that 
program. Such guidance shall prohibit any home energy supplier 
receiving funds through the program from recovering arrearage 
assistance costs through rate increases or other charges to customers, 
including cost recovery mechanisms that disproportionately impact low-
income households.
``(3) To the extent practicable, the Secretary and the Secretary of 
Energy shall jointly--
``(A) implement a data tracking system, aligned with the 
standardized reporting template developed under paragraph (1), 
to collect aggregate data regarding the number of eligible 
households in arrears and their respective energy burdens and 
develop recommendations to HEAP coordinators on how to minimize 
energy burdens for the households; and
``(B) issue guidance to home energy suppliers with 
recommendations for working with State agencies to address home 
energy payment arrearages of eligible households.
``(4) The Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of Energy, 
may make grants to States to assist the States in implementing data 
tracking and reporting requirements under this subsection.
``(5) There are authorized to be appropriated to carry out this 
subsection such sums as may be necessary.''.
(h) Program Name Change.--
(1) LIHEAP.--The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Act of 
1981 is amended--
(A) in section 2607A(b) (42 U.S.C. 8626a(b)), in 
the matter preceding paragraph (1), by striking ``low-
income'' the first place it appears; and
(B) in section 2607B(e)(2)(B)(ii) (42 U.S.C. 
8626b(e)(2)(B)(ii)), by striking ``Low-Income''.
(2) Other law.--A reference in any other Federal law (other 
than that Act), Executive order, rule, regulation, or 
delegation of authority, or any document, of or relating to the 
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, shall be deemed to 
refer to the Home Energy Assistance Program.
(i) Just Transition Grants.--The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance 
Act of 1981 is amended by inserting after section 2607B (42 U.S.C. 
8626b) the following:

``SEC. 2607C. HEAP ENERGY AFFORDABILITY AND RESILIENCE GRANTS.

``(a) Grant Program.--The Secretary and the Secretary of Energy 
shall jointly carry out a grant program under this section. In carrying 
out the program, the Secretaries shall make grants for a period of 3 
years to States, Tribes, and local governments to support the 
development and implementation of interagency plans to reduce energy 
burdens for eligible households with high home energy use. The plans 
shall promote the reduction of those burdens in a manner that supports 
sustained reductions in household energy costs through improved energy 
efficiency, reliability, and access to cost-saving technologies. The 
Secretaries shall make the grants for a period of 3 years.
``(b) Preferences.--In making the grants, the Secretary shall give 
a preference to States, Tribes, and local governments, who set up 
coordination systems--
``(1) to identify eligible households, that are recipients 
of assistance through the program funded under section 2602(b), 
with high home energy use;
``(2) to prioritize eligible households with the highest 
energy burdens and lowest incomes, in alignment with the 
priority provisions in paragraphs (2) and (3) of section 
2605(b), to receive emergency repair, weatherization, and 
retrofit assistance that results in decarbonization and 
reductions in energy use; and
``(3) to partner with entities carrying out workforce 
development initiatives, unions, or business enterprises owned 
by individuals that are socially disadvantaged to provide 
emergency repairs, weatherization, and retrofit assistance.
``(c) Report to Congress.--At the conclusion of the 3-year grant 
period, the Secretaries shall--
``(1) conduct an evaluation of the program's outcomes; and
``(2) prepare and submit to Congress a report containing 
the results of the evaluation and policy recommendations.''.
(j) Conforming Amendments.--The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance 
Act of 1981 (42 U.S.C. 8621 et seq.) is amended--
(1) in section 2607B(e)(2)(K) (42 U.S.C. 8626b(e)(2)(K)) by 
striking ``paragraphs (2), (3), (4), (5), (7), (9), (10), (11), 
(12), (13), and (14) of section 2605(b)'' and inserting 
``paragraphs (2), (4), (5), (6), (8), (10), (11), (12), (13), 
(14), and (15) of section 2605(b)''; and
(2) in section 2610(b)(1) (42 U.S.C. 8629) by striking 
``clauses (2), (5), (8), and (15) of section 2605(b)'' and 
inserting ``paragraphs (2), (6), (9), and (16) of section 
2605(b)''.

SEC. 202. HOME WEATHERIZATION.

(a) Enhancement and Innovation.--Section 414D of the Energy 
Conservation and Production Act (42 U.S.C. 6864d) is amended by 
striking subsection (k).
(b) Average Cost per Dwelling Unit.--Section 415(c)(1) of the 
Energy Conservation and Production Act (42 U.S.C. 6865(c)(1)) is 
amended by striking ``$6,500'' and inserting ``$12,000''.
(c) Clarification of Reweatherization Limitation.--Section 
415(c)(2) of the Energy Conservation and Production Act (42 U.S.C. 
6865(c)(2)) is amended--
(1) by striking ``, or under other Federal programs'';
(2) by striking ``, may'' and inserting ``may''; and
(3) by striking ``or under other Federal programs, or from 
receiving non-Federal assistance for weatherization''.
(d) Renewable Energy Systems.--Section 415(c) of the Energy 
Conservation and Production Act (42 U.S.C. 6865(c)) is amended by 
striking paragraph (4).
(e) Weatherization Readiness Program.--
(1) In general.--The Energy Conservation and Production Act 
is amended by adding after section 414E (42 U.S.C. 6864e) the 
following section:

``SEC. 414F. WEATHERIZATION READINESS PROGRAM.

``(a) In General.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Secretary shall establish a 
weatherization readiness program to provide grants to States, Indian 
tribes, and tribal organizations to implement measures to make dwelling 
units occupied by low-income persons ready to receive weatherization 
measures pursuant to the weatherization program conducted under this 
part by addressing structural, plumbing, roofing, and electrical issues 
and environmental hazards, and implementing other measures that the 
Secretary determines to be appropriate, to reduce the frequency of 
deferrals of such weatherization measures when the condition of a 
dwelling unit renders delivery of weatherization measures unsafe or 
ineffective.
``(b) Alignment of Requirements.--Except as otherwise provided in 
this section, to the extent possible, the Secretary shall, in 
establishing the weatherization readiness program under this section--
``(1) align the requirements of such weatherization 
readiness program with the requirements of the weatherization 
program conducted under this part; and
``(2) seek to reduce barriers to leveraging other sources 
of funding for weatherization readiness measures.
``(c) Savings-to-Investment Ratio.--The weatherization readiness 
program established under this section shall not include a savings-to-
investment ratio requirement.
``(d) Previous Weatherization.--Weatherization readiness measures 
implemented pursuant to the weatherization readiness program 
established under this section shall not be considered previous 
weatherization for purposes of section 415(c)(2).
``(e) Average Cost per Dwelling Unit.--The Secretary shall 
establish, or require a State grantee to establish, a limit for 
expenditures for weatherization readiness measures, including labor, 
materials, and related matters, to be implemented with respect to a 
dwelling unit, on an average cost per unit basis, pursuant to the 
weatherization readiness program established under this section.
``(f) Allocation of Funds.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall allocate funding 
made available under this section to States and tribal 
organizations in a manner consistent with the allocation of 
financial assistance for weatherization assistance under the 
weatherization program conducted under this part.
``(2) Updated allocation.--Not sooner than October 1, 2029, 
the Secretary, in consultation with States and tribal 
organizations, may, by rule, update the method to allocate 
funding to States and tribal organizations under this section 
to more accurately reflect the relative need for funding for 
weatherization readiness measures among low-income persons 
throughout the States and Indian tribes.
``(g) Administrative Expenses.--Not more than an amount equal to 15 
percent of any grant made by the Secretary under this section may be 
used for administrative purposes, except that not more than one-half of 
such amount may be used by any State for such purposes.
``(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be 
appropriated $50,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030 to 
carry out this section.''.
(2) Table of contents amendment.--The table of contents for 
the Energy Conservation and Production Act is amended by adding 
after the item relating to section 414E the following:

``Sec. 414F. Weatherization readiness program.''.
(f) Reauthorization of Weatherization Assistance Program.--
Paragraph (2) of section 422 of the Energy Conservation and Production 
Act (42 U.S.C. 6872) is amended by striking ``2025'' and inserting 
``2030''.

SEC. 203. REFLECTIVE ROOFING.

(a) Establishment.--The Secretary shall establish and carry out a 
program to provide rebates to eligible households for the purchase and 
installation of eligible cool roof products.
(b) Rebate Amount.--The amount of a rebate provided under the 
program established under subsection (a) shall be--
(1) with respect to an eligible cool roof product installed 
on a low-sloped roof--
(A) $0.25 per square foot if such eligible cool 
roof product has--
(i) a minimum 3-year aged solar reflectance 
of 0.65 and a minimum 3-year-aged thermal 
emittance of 0.75; or
(ii) a minimum 3-year aged Solar 
Reflectance Index of 78; and
(B) $0.75 per square foot if such eligible cool 
roof product has--
(i) a minimum 3-year aged solar reflectance 
of 0.75 and a minimum 3-year-aged thermal 
emittance of 0.75; or
(ii) a minimum 3-year aged Solar 
Reflectance Index of 92; and
(2) with respect to an eligible cool roof product installed 
on a steep-sloped roof--
(A) $0.25 per square foot if such eligible cool 
roof product has--
(i) a minimum 3-year aged solar reflectance 
of 0.25 and a minimum 3-year-aged thermal 
emittance of 0.75; or
(ii) a minimum 3-year aged Solar 
Reflectance Index of 23; and
(B) $0.75 per square foot if such eligible cool 
roof product has--
(i) a minimum 3-year aged solar reflectance 
of 0.40 and a minimum 3-year-aged thermal 
emittance of 0.75; or
(ii) a minimum 3-year aged Solar 
Reflectance Index of 43.
(c) Combining Rebates.--Nothing in this section shall be construed 
to prohibit an eligible household from receiving any other grant, 
rebate, or other financial assistance with respect to the same eligible 
cool roof product for which a rebate is provided under the program 
established under subsection (a).
(d) Low-Income and High Energy Burden Households.--In implementing 
this section, the Secretary shall ensure that not less that 40 percent 
of total incremental energy savings achieved under this program in a 
given year shall accrue to households that in the determination of the 
Secretary are low-income or experience a disproportionately high energy 
burden.
(e) Participation Statements.--Each State and each retail 
electricity supplier shall publish on an annual basis an impact 
statement that disaggregates participation under this section by income 
and demographic characteristics, savings, and health outcomes.
(f) Termination Date.--The program established under subsection (a) 
shall terminate on September 30, 2030.
(g) Reporting Requirement.--Not later than 6 months after the 
program established under subsection (a) terminates, the Secretary 
shall submit to Congress a report describing, for each program 
participant--
(1) whether the participant used the rebate to help 
retrofit an old roof or install a new roof;
(2) if the participant retrofitted an old roof, which older 
roof product the new eligible cool roof product replaced or 
covered; and
(3) what eligible cool roof product the participant 
purchased using the rebate.
(h) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be 
appropriated to carry out this section $25,000,000 for each of fiscal 
years 2026 through 2030.
(i) Definitions.--In this Act:
(1) 3-year aged.--The term ``3-year aged'' means, with 
respect to solar reflectance or thermal emittance of an 
eligible cool roof product, the solar reflectance or thermal 
emittance is tested after completing 3 years of field exposure, 
or tested after laboratory exposure that has replicated the 
effects of 3 years of natural exposure if the eligible cool 
roof product has begun but not yet completed field exposure, in 
accordance with the most recent standard issued by the American 
National Standard Institute and Cool Roof Rating Council, S100-
2021.
(2) Eligible cool roof product.--The term ``eligible cool 
roof product'' means a product that has a rating from the Cool 
Roof Rating Council.
(3) Eligible household.--
(A) In general.--Except as provided in subparagraph 
(B), the term ``eligible household'' means an 
individual or family--
(i) residing in a single-family or multi-
family building;
(ii) the total annual income of which is 
less than 200 percent of the median income of 
the ZIP Code in which the individual or family 
resides (as reported by the Department of 
Housing and Urban Development); and
(iii) residing in a ZIP Code Tabulation 
Area that is in the 75th percentile or higher 
of the Heat and Health Index of the Centers for 
Disease Control and Prevention.
(B) Alaska, hawaii, and territories.--With respect 
to an individual or family residing in Alaska, Hawaii, 
or a territory of the United States, until the date 
that their respective State or territory is added to 
the Heat and Health Index of the Centers for Disease 
Control and Prevention, the term ``eligible household'' 
means that such individual or family--
(i) resides in a single-family or multi-
family building; and
(ii) has a total annual income that is less 
than 200 percent of the median income of the 
ZIP Code in which the individual or family 
resides (as reported by the Department of 
Housing and Urban Development).
(4) Incident solar flux.--The term ``incident solar flux'' 
means the solar power per unit area that strikes a surface.
(5) Low-sloped roof.--The term ``low-sloped roof'' means a 
roof with a slope (ratio of rise to run) of 2:12 or less.
(6) Radiant heat flux.--The term ``radiant heat flux'' 
means the radiant power per unit area.
(7) Reflected solar flux.--The term ``reflected solar 
flux'' means the solar power per unit area reflected from a 
surface.
(8) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Energy.
(9) Solar reflectance.--The term ``solar reflectance'' 
means the ratio of reflected solar flux to the incident solar 
flux.
(10) Solar reflectance index.--The term ``Solar Reflectance 
Index'' means a calculated value that combines solar 
reflectance with thermal emittance into a single metric, in 
accordance with section 2.2.9. of the Cool Roof Rating 
Council's Roof Product Rating Program Manual.
(11) Steep-sloped roof.--The term ``steep-sloped roof'' 
means a roof with a slope (ratio of rise to run) greater than 
2:12.
(12) Thermal emittance.--The term ``thermal emittance'' 
means the ratio of the radiant heat flux emitted by a material 
tested at a temperature near 300 kelvin.

SEC. 204. DOMESTIC NATURAL GAS PRICE PROTECTION.

(a) Exportation of Natural Gas.--
(1) Exportation of natural gas.--Section 3 of the Natural 
Gas Act (15 U.S.C. 717b) is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
``(g) Exportation of Natural Gas.--
``(1) Order required.--No person shall export any natural 
gas from the United States to a foreign country without first 
having secured an order of the Secretary of Energy authorizing 
it to do so. The Secretary of Energy may issue such order upon 
application only if, after opportunity for hearing, the 
Secretary of Energy finds that the proposed exportation will be 
consistent with the public interest. The Secretary of Energy 
may by its order grant such application, in whole or in part, 
with such modification and upon such terms and conditions as 
the Secretary of Energy may find necessary or appropriate, and 
may from time to time, after opportunity for hearing, and for 
good cause shown, issue such supplemental order for such 
exportation as it may find necessary or appropriate.
``(2) Deadline.--The Secretary of Energy shall find whether 
proposed exportation of natural gas will be consistent with the 
public interest under paragraph (1) by not later than the date 
that is 1 year after the later of--
``(A) the date on which the Secretary of Energy 
receives the final environmental impact statement for 
such proposed exportation from the Federal Energy 
Regulatory Commission; and
``(B) the date on which the Secretary completes 
each assessment required by paragraph (4).
``(3) Public interest finding.--The Secretary of Energy may 
find that proposed exportation of natural gas for which an 
application is submitted under paragraph (1) will be consistent 
with the public interest under such paragraph only if the 
Secretary of Energy determines, based on the applicable 
assessment under paragraph (4), that the proposed exportation 
of natural gas will not be likely to--
``(A) significantly contribute to climate change, 
including by slowing the global energy transition 
needed to achieve deep reductions of global greenhouse 
gas emissions within the next decade and net-zero 
global greenhouse gas emissions not later than 2050;
``(B) materially increase energy prices or energy 
price volatility for any segment of United States 
consumers; or
``(C) create a disproportionate cumulative burden 
of adverse human or environmental impacts on Tribes and 
communities with environmental justice concerns, 
including in rural and urban low-income areas.
``(4) Assessments.--
``(A) Climate change assessment.--A determination 
under paragraph (3)(A) shall be based on an assessment 
of the expected impact of the proposed exportation of 
natural gas on climate change. Such assessment shall be 
based on the latest scientific information and use the 
20-year global warming potential of methane, and shall 
include--
``(i) quantified estimates of the 
greenhouse gas emissions associated with the 
full lifecycle of the natural gas proposed for 
exportation, including emissions associated 
with the extraction, transportation, 
liquefaction, storage, regasification, and 
consumption of such natural gas;
``(ii) a comparison of the estimated 
greenhouse gas emissions in clause (i) to a 
baseline that is consistent with the need to 
achieve deep reductions of global greenhouse 
gas emissions within the next decade and deep 
decarbonization pathways toward net-zero global 
greenhouse gas emissions not later than 2050;
``(iii) an assessment of the potential 
effects of the proposed exportation of natural 
gas on clean energy alternatives, including--
``(I) any decrease in global 
investment in and deployment of 
renewable energy, electrification, and 
energy efficiency and conservation 
technologies; and
``(II) any decrease in United 
States exports of clean energy 
technologies;
``(iv) quantified estimates of the social 
cost of the estimated greenhouse gas emissions 
in clause (i); and
``(v) an identification of the extent to 
which climate change is accelerating the loss 
of economic value in the United States and, 
separately, in other countries, due to rising 
sea levels, more intense storms, eroding 
coasts, increased risk and severity of 
wildfires, and other impacts associated with 
climate change.
``(B) Economic assessment.--A determination under 
paragraph (3)(B) shall be based on an assessment of the 
expected economic impact of the proposed exportation of 
natural gas, including an assessment of the impact of 
the proposed exportation on all United States 
consumers, with specific estimates regarding each of 
the following consumer subgroups:
``(i) Low-income consumers.
``(ii) Working families.
``(iii) Small businesses.
``(iv) Manufacturers.
``(v) State, Tribal, and local governments.
``(vi) Producers and users of fertilizer.
``(vii) Facilities with high electricity 
demand, including data centers.
``(C) Environmental justice assessment.--A 
determination under paragraph (3)(C) shall be based on 
an assessment of the expected impact of the proposed 
exportation of natural gas on environmental justice 
(which shall be consistent with Executive Order 14096 
(42 U.S.C. 4321 note; relating to revitalizing our 
Nation's commitment to environmental justice for all), 
as published April 21, 2023), including assessments of 
impacts on--
``(i) the preexisting cumulative 
environmental burdens and social and health 
risks posed to Tribes and communities with 
environmental justice concerns, including in 
rural and urban low-income areas;
``(ii) local fisheries and the economic 
livelihood of the people employed by local 
fisheries;
``(iii) racial and socioeconomic 
disparities in impacted communities; and
``(iv) compliance with civil rights laws.
``(5) Public participation.--The Secretary of Energy 
shall--
``(A) provide to the public an opportunity to 
meaningfully participate, including by providing 
comments, in--
``(i) the finding of the Secretary of 
Energy on whether proposed exportation will be 
consistent with the public interest under 
paragraph (1); and
``(ii) any study by the Department of 
Energy intended to inform such finding; and
``(B) ensure that opportunities to meaningfully 
participate under subparagraph (A) address barriers 
that affect members of communities with environmental 
justice concerns, including those related to 
disability, language access, and lack of resources.
``(6) Major federal action.--Issuing an order authorizing 
the exportation of natural gas under this subsection shall be 
considered a major Federal action under section 102(2)(C) of 
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
4332(2)(C)).''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--Section 3 of the Natural Gas 
Act (15 U.S.C. 717b) is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) by striking ``export any natural gas 
from the United States to a foreign country 
or'';
(ii) by inserting ``to the United States'' 
after ``from a foreign country''; and
(iii) by striking ``exportation or''; and
(B) in subsection (c)--
(i) by striking ``, or the exportation of 
natural gas to a nation with which there is in 
effect a free trade agreement requiring 
national treatment for trade in natural gas,''; 
and
(ii) by striking ``or exportation''.
(b) Process Coordination; Hearings; Rules of Procedure.--Section 
15(b)(1) of the Natural Gas Act (15 U.S.C. 717n(b)(1)) is amended by 
striking ``Commission'' and inserting ``Federal Energy Regulatory 
Commission''.
(c) Termination of Categorical Exclusion for Approval or 
Disapproval of the Exportation of Natural Gas.--The categorical 
exclusion under B5.7 of appendix B to subpart D of part 1021 of title 
10, Code of Federal Regulations (relating to export of natural gas and 
associated transportation by marine vessel), shall have no force or 
effect.
(d) Rulemaking.--Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary of Energy shall, after public notice and 
comment, issue a rule to carry out this Act and the amendments made by 
this Act.

SEC. 205. RURAL ENERGY SAVINGS.

Section 6407 of the Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 
(7 U.S.C. 8107a) is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (B), by striking ``or'' 
at the end;
(ii) by redesignating subparagraph (C) as 
subparagraph (D); and
(iii) by inserting after subparagraph (B) 
the following:
``(C) any Indian Tribe (as defined in section 4 of 
the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance 
Act (25 U.S.C. 5304));'';
(2) in subsection (c)--
(A) in the subsection heading, by inserting ``and 
Grants'' after ``Loans'';
(B) by striking paragraph (1) and inserting the 
following:
``(1) In general.--Subject to the requirements of this 
subsection, the Secretary shall provide--
``(A) loans to eligible entities that agree to use 
the loan funds to make loans under subsection (d) to 
qualified consumers for the purpose of implementing 
energy efficiency measures; and
``(B) at the election of any eligible entity that 
receives a loan under subparagraph (A), a grant in 
accordance with paragraph (10).'';
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the paragraph heading, by inserting 
``for loans'' after ``Requirements''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (A)(i), by striking 
``that is'';
(D) in paragraph (5)--
(i) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and 
(B) as clauses (i) and (ii), respectively, and 
indenting the clauses appropriately;
(ii) in the matter preceding clause (i) (as 
so redesignated), by striking ``With respect to 
a loan under paragraph (1)'' and inserting the 
following:
``(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), 
with respect to a loan under paragraph (1)(A)''; and
(iii) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) Extensions.--The Secretary may extend the 
term of a loan under subparagraph (A)(i), or the 
deadline for the repayment of an advance under 
subparagraph (A)(ii), as the Secretary determines to be 
appropriate.'';
(E) in paragraph (7)--
(i) in subparagraph (B), by striking 
``paragraph (1)'' and inserting ``paragraph 
(1)(A)''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (C), in the matter 
preceding clause (i), by striking ``Repayment 
of the special advance'' and inserting 
``Subject to an applicable extension under 
paragraph (5)(B), repayment of a special 
advance under this paragraph'';
(F) in paragraph (8), by striking ``paragraph (1)'' 
and inserting ``paragraph (1)(A)''; and
(G) by adding at the end the following:
``(10) Grants.--
``(A) In general.--At the election of an eligible 
entity that receives a loan under this subsection, the 
Secretary shall provide to the eligible entity a grant 
to pay for a portion of the costs incurred in--
``(i) applying for the loan;
``(ii) making a loan to a qualified 
consumer under subsection (d);
``(iii) making repairs to the property of a 
qualified consumer that facilitate the energy 
efficiency measures for the property financed 
through a loan provided to the qualified 
consumer under subsection (d);
``(iv) entering into a contract under 
subsection (e); or
``(v) carrying out any other duties of the 
eligible entity under this section.
``(B) Amount.--
``(i) In general.--Except as provided in 
clause (ii), the amount of a grant provided to 
an eligible entity under this paragraph shall 
be equal to not more than 5 percent of the 
amount of the loan provided to the eligible 
entity under this subsection.
``(ii) Persistent poverty counties.--The 
amount of a grant provided under this paragraph 
to an eligible entity that will use the grant 
to make loans under subsection (d) to qualified 
consumers located in a persistent poverty 
county (as determined by the Secretary) shall 
be equal to 10 percent of the amount of the 
loan provided to the eligible entity under this 
subsection.'';
(3) in subsection (d)--
(A) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph 
(A), by inserting ``or grant'' before 
``funds''; and
(ii) in subparagraph (B)--
(I) by striking ``(B) shall 
finance'' and inserting the following:
``(B)(i) may have a term and amortization schedule 
the length of which is the useful life of the energy 
efficiency measures implemented using the loan, 
provided that the loan to the qualified consumer does 
not exceed 20 years; and
``(ii) shall finance''; and
(II) in clause (ii) (as so 
designated), by striking ``a loan term 
of not more than 10 years'' and 
inserting ``the applicable loan term 
described in clause (i)'';
(4) in subsection (e)--
(A) in the subsection heading, by inserting 
``Outreach,'' after ``Training,'';
(B) in paragraph (1)--
(i) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``and 
technical assistance of the program'' and 
inserting ``outreach, and technical assistance 
relating to the program under this section''; 
and
(ii) in subparagraph (B)(ii), by inserting 
``, outreach,'' after ``technical assistance''; 
and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(3) Funding.--Of the amounts made available under 
subsection (i), the Secretary may use such sums as are 
necessary to provide outreach, training, and technical 
assistance under this subsection.''; and
(5) in subsection (i), by striking ``2023'' and inserting 
``2030''.

TITLE III--UNCLOGGING THE LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY BOTTLENECK

SEC. 301. EXPEDITED GENERATOR INTERCONNECTION.

(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Advanced transmission technology.--The term ``advanced 
transmission technology'' means any hardware or software that--
(A) increases the capacity, efficiency, 
reliability, resilience, or safety of transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies;
(B) is installed in addition to new or existing 
transmission facilities and transmission technologies--
(i) to give operators of the transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies more 
situational awareness and control over the 
electric grid;
(ii) to make the transmission facilities 
and transmission technologies more efficient; 
or
(iii) to increase the transfer capacity of 
the transmission facilities and transmission 
technologies; and
(C) includes, but is not limited to, dynamic line 
ratings, advanced conductors, topology optimization, 
advanced power-flow controls, and other digital or 
physical systems that increase the usable transfer 
capability of the grid.
(2) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission.
(3) Energy storage project.--The term ``energy storage 
project'' means--
(A) any equipment that receives, stores, and 
delivers energy-using batteries, compressed air, pumped 
hydropower, hydrogen storage (including hydrolysis), 
thermal energy storage, regenerative fuel cells, 
flywheels, capacitors, superconducting magnets, or 
other technologies identified by the Commission; and
(B) any project for the construction or 
modification of equipment described in subparagraph (A) 
as part of an effort to build-out transmission 
interconnection opportunities.
(4) Generation project.--The term ``generation project'' 
means--
(A) any facility--
(i) that generates or injects electricity; 
and
(ii) for which an interconnection request 
is subject to the jurisdiction of the 
Commission; and
(B) any project for the construction or 
modification of a facility described in subparagraph 
(A).
(5) Interconnection customer.--The term ``interconnection 
customer'' means a person or entity that has submitted an 
interconnection request.
(6) Interconnection request.--The term ``interconnection 
request'' means a request submitted to a public utility to 
interconnect a new generation project or energy storage project 
to the electric system of a public utility for the purposes of 
transmission of electric energy in interstate commerce or the 
sale of electric energy at wholesale.
(7) Public utility.--The term ``public utility'' has the 
meaning given the term in section 201(e) of the Federal Power 
Act (16 U.S.C. 824(e)).
(8) Transmission facility.--The term ``transmission 
facility'' means a facility that is used for the transmission 
of electric energy in interstate commerce.
(9) Transmission provider.--The term ``transmission 
provider'' means a public utility that owns, operates, or 
controls 1 or more transmission facilities.
(10) Transmission system.--The term ``transmission system'' 
means a network of transmission facilities used for the 
transmission of electric energy in interstate commerce.
(b) Rulemaking To Expedite Generator Interconnection Procedures.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Commission shall initiate a 
rulemaking--
(A) to address the inefficiencies and 
ineffectiveness of existing procedures for processing 
interconnection requests to ensure that new generation 
projects and energy storage projects can interconnect 
quickly, cost-effectively, and reliably;
(B) to invalidate expedited interconnection 
processes, using its section 206 authority, that have 
been adopted in 2025 or 2026 and which are not in the 
pro forma interconnection agreement and which use 
eligibility criteria that have disproportionately 
selected natural gas and coal projects in comparison to 
other projects such as, wind, solar and electric 
battery storage projects; and
(C) to revise the pro forma Large Generator 
Interconnection Procedures and, as appropriate, the pro 
forma Large Generator Interconnection Agreement, 
promulgated pursuant to section 35.28(f) of title 18, 
Code of Federal Regulations (or successor regulations), 
to require transmission providers--
(i) to develop and employ modeling 
assumptions for each resource type based on 
actual operating abilities and practices, for 
the purposes of studying an interconnection 
request, provided that the Commission shall not 
rely on such modeling assumptions to study 
projects out of queue priority;
(ii) to study interconnection requests in a 
manner consistent with the risk tolerance of 
the interconnection customer;
(iii) to establish simplified and 
standardized study pathways for small-scale or 
community-based generation projects, including 
distributed energy resources and projects 
serving low-income communities;
(iv) to select, as appropriate, 1 or more 
cost-effective solutions to address network 
reliability needs that may be identified while 
studying an interconnection request;
(v) to provide sufficient information to 
interconnection customers for the 
interconnection customers to understand how a 
transmission provider has implemented the 
assumptions and solutions described in clauses 
(i) and (iv);
(vi) to share and employ, as appropriate, 
queue management best practices, including with 
respect to the use of computing technologies, 
such as artificial intelligence, machine 
learning, and automation, as well as 
standardized study criteria, in evaluating and 
processing interconnection requests, in order 
to expedite study results with respect to those 
requests; and
(vii) to implement transparency and 
performance-enhancing measures and requirements 
that transmission providers consider advanced 
transmission technologies to ensure timely and 
cost-conscious construction of necessary 
network upgrades once an interconnection 
agreement has been executed.
(2) Deadline for final rule.--Not later than 12 months 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission shall 
promulgate a final rule to complete the rulemaking initiated 
under paragraph (1).
(3) Deadline for compliance filings.--The Commission shall 
require each applicable Transmission Provider subject to the 
final rule issued pursuant to this rulemaking to submit their 
compliance filings within 60 days of the issuance of the final 
order, and the Commission shall have 60 days thereafter to 
approve or reject the compliance filing. Any subsequent 
compliance filing thereafter shall be subject to these same 
timing requirements.
(4) Savings clause.--Nothing in this section alters, or may 
be construed to alter, the allocation of costs of the 
transmission system pursuant to the ratemaking authority of the 
Commission under section 205 of the Federal Power Act (16 
U.S.C. 824d).

SEC. 302. ADVANCED TRANSMISSION TECHNOLOGIES.

(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission.
(2) Advanced transmission technology.--The term ``advanced 
transmission technology'' means any hardware or software that--
(A) increases the capacity, efficiency, 
reliability, resilience, or safety of transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies;
(B) is installed in addition to new or existing 
transmission facilities and transmission technologies--
(i) to give operators of the transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies more 
situational awareness and control over the 
electric grid;
(ii) to make the transmission facilities 
and transmission technologies more efficient; 
or
(iii) to increase the transfer capacity of 
the transmission facilities and transmission 
technologies; and
(C) includes, but is not limited to, dynamic line 
ratings, advanced conductors, topology optimization, 
advanced power-flow controls, and other digital or 
physical systems that increase the usable transfer 
capability of the grid.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Energy.
(b) Shared Savings Incentive for Advanced Transmission 
Technologies.--
(1) Definition of developer.--In this subsection, the term 
``developer'', with respect to advanced transmission 
technology, means the entity that pays to install the advanced 
transmission technology.
(2) Establishment of shared savings incentive.--Not later 
than 18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Commission shall promulgate a final rule to implement section 
219(b)(3) of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824s(b)(3)) by 
providing a shared savings incentive that returns a portion of 
the savings attributable to an investment in advanced 
transmission technology to the developer of that advanced 
transmission technology, in accordance with this subsection. 
The Commission may also establish alternative incentive 
mechanisms, including performance-based rate adjustments, 
accelerated depreciation, or return-on-equity adders, for 
utilities or transmission owners for which a shared-savings 
approach is impracticable.
(3) Requirements.--
(A) In general.--The Commission shall determine the 
percentage of savings attributable to an investment in 
advanced transmission technology that can be returned 
to the developer of that advanced transmission 
technology pursuant to the shared savings incentive 
established under paragraph (2), subject to the 
conditions that the percentage--
(i) is not less than 10 percent and not 
more than 25 percent;
(ii) is not determined on a per-project, 
per-investment, or case-by-case basis; and
(iii) is applied consistently to all 
investments in advanced transmission technology 
eligible for the shared savings incentive, 
regardless of the type of advanced transmission 
technology installed.
(B) Time period for recovery.--The shared savings 
incentive established under paragraph (2) shall return 
a percentage, determined in accordance with 
subparagraph (A), of the applicable savings to the 
developer of the applicable advanced transmission 
technology over a period of 10 years.
(4) Eligibility.--Subject to paragraph (5), the shared 
savings incentive established under paragraph (2) shall apply 
with respect to--
(A) any developer, with respect to the investment 
of that developer in advanced transmission technology 
that is installed as described in subsection (a)(2)(B); 
and
(B) any advanced transmission technology, 
including--
(i) advanced transmission technology that 
relates to new transmission facilities or 
transmission technologies; and
(ii) advanced transmission technology that 
relates to existing transmission facilities or 
transmission technologies.
(5) Limitations.--
(A) Minimum savings.--
(i) In general.--The shared savings 
incentive established under paragraph (2) shall 
apply with respect to an investment in advanced 
transmission technology only if the expected 
savings attributable to the investment over the 
3-year period described in paragraph (3)(B), as 
determined by the Commission and appropriately 
adjusted to reflect net present value of the 
expected savings, are at least 2 times the cost 
of the investment.
(ii) Determination.--
(I) In general.--The Commission 
shall determine how to quantify the 
cost of an investment and the expected 
savings attributable to an investment 
for purposes of clause (i).
(II) Costs.--For purposes of clause 
(i), the cost of an investment may 
include any costs associated with the 
permitting, installation, or purchase 
of the applicable advanced transmission 
technology.
(B) Already installed advanced transmission 
technologies.--The shared savings incentive established 
under paragraph (2) may not be applied with respect to 
advanced transmission technology that is already 
installed as of the date of enactment of this Act.
(C) Consumer protection.--The Commission shall 
determine appropriate consumer protections for the 
shared savings incentive established under paragraph 
(2).
(6) Evaluation and sunset of shared savings incentive.--
(A) Evaluation.--Not earlier than 7 years, and not 
later than 10 years, after the shared savings incentive 
is established under paragraph (2), the Commission 
shall--
(i) evaluate the necessity and efficacy of 
the shared savings incentive; and
(ii) determine whether to maintain, revise, 
or suspend the shared savings incentive.
(B) Consideration of order no. 1920.--In conducting 
the evaluation under subparagraph (A)(i), the 
Commission shall consider--
(i) how the shared savings incentive aligns 
with the requirement that advanced transmission 
technologies be considered in long-term 
regional transmission planning under Order No. 
1920 of the Commission, entitled ``Building for 
the Future Through Electric Regional 
Transmission Planning and Cost Allocation'' (89 
Fed. Reg. 49280 (June 11, 2024)) (or a 
successor order);
(ii) whether and how the shared savings 
incentive should be revised to further align 
with that requirement; and
(iii) whether, in light of that 
requirement, the shared savings incentive 
should be maintained or suspended.
(C) Public comment.--In conducting the evaluation 
under subparagraph (A)(i), the Commission shall provide 
an opportunity for public comment, including by 
stakeholders.
(c) Congestion Reporting.--
(1) Annual reports.--
(A) In general.--Beginning on the date that is 1 
year after the effective date of the rule promulgated 
under paragraph (2), all operators of transmission 
facilities or transmission technologies shall submit to 
the Commission annual reports containing data on the 
costs associated with congestion management with 
respect to the transmission facilities or transmission 
technologies, including all relevant constraints.
(B) Requirement.--Each annual report submitted 
under subparagraph (A) shall identify--
(i) with respect to each reported 
constraint that caused more than $500,000 in 
associated costs--
(I) the cause of the constraint, 
including physical infrastructure and 
transient disruptions; and
(II) the next limiting element type 
and its identified rating limit; and
(ii) each constraint that will be addressed 
by planned future upgrades to infrastructure 
and facilities.
(2) Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Commission shall promulgate a final 
rule establishing a universal metric and protocol for the 
measuring and reporting of data under paragraph (1).
(3) Uses of data.--
(A) Analyses.--
(i) In general.--The Commission and the 
Secretary shall each use the data submitted 
under paragraph (1) to conduct analyses, as the 
Commission or the Secretary, as applicable, 
determines to be appropriate.
(ii) Coordination.--The Commission and the 
Secretary may coordinate with respect to any 
analyses conducted using the data submitted 
under paragraph (1).
(B) Map.--The Commission and the Secretary, acting 
jointly, shall--
(i) use the data submitted under paragraph 
(1) to create a map of costs associated with 
congestion management in the transmission 
system; and
(ii) update that map not less frequently 
than once each year.
(4) Publication of data and map.--The Commission and the 
Secretary shall make the data submitted under paragraph (1) and 
the map described in paragraph (3)(B) publicly available on the 
websites of--
(A) the Commission; and
(B) the Department of Energy.
(d) Advanced Transmission Technology Application Guide.--
(1) Definition of developer.--In this section, the term 
``developer'' means a developer of transmission facilities or 
transmission technologies, including a developer of 
transmission facilities or transmission technologies that pays 
to install advanced transmission technology with respect to 
those transmission facilities or transmission technologies.
(2) Establishment of application guide.--Not later than 18 
months after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary 
shall establish an application guide for utilities and 
developers seeking to implement advanced transmission 
technologies.
(3) Updates.--The guide established under paragraph (2) 
shall be reviewed and updated annually.
(4) Technical assistance.--
(A) In general.--On request of a utility or 
developer using the guide established under paragraph 
(2), the Secretary shall provide technical assistance 
to that utility or developer with respect to the use of 
advanced transmission technologies for particular 
applications.
(B) Clearinghouse.--In carrying out subparagraph 
(A), the Secretary shall establish a clearinghouse of 
previously completed advanced transmission technology 
projects that the Secretary, utilities, and developers 
may use to identify issues and solutions relating to 
the use of advanced transmission technologies for 
particular applications.
(5) Authorization of appropriations.--There are authorized 
to be appropriated to carry out this Act, to remain available 
until expended--
(A) $5,000,000 for fiscal year 2026; and
(B) $1,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2027 
through 2037.

SEC. 303. ELECTRICITY TRANSFORMERS.

(a) Defense Production Act.--There is authorized to be appropriated 
$2,100,000,000 for the President, acting through the Secretary of 
Energy, under the authority of title III of the Defense Production Act 
of 1950 (50 U.S.C. 4531 et seq.), to expand domestic manufacturing of 
transformers and grid components, including amorphous steel, grain-
oriented electrical steel, flexible transformers, circuit breakers, 
switchgear and substations to serve load and interconnect generation, 
and inverters and optimizers to integrate the influx of distributed 
generators.
(b) Strategic Transformer Resilience Program.--
(1) Definitions.--In this section:
(A) Bulk-power system; electric reliability 
organization.--The terms ``bulk-power system'' and 
``Electric Reliability Organization'' have the meanings 
given those terms in section 215(a) of the Federal 
Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824o(a)).
(B) Independent system operator; regional 
transmission organization; state regulatory 
authority.--The terms ``Independent System Operator'', 
``Regional Transmission Organization'', and ``State 
regulatory authority'' have the meanings given those 
terms in section 3 of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 
796).
(C) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the 
Secretary of Energy.
(2) Strategy and report.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 18 months after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall 
develop a strategy, and submit to the Committee on 
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the 
Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of 
Representatives a report identifying methods--
(i) to ensure that large power 
transformers, generator step-up transformers, 
power conversion equipment, grain-oriented 
electrical steel, and other critical electric 
grid equipment is strategically located to 
ensure timely replacement of that equipment as 
necessary to rapidly restore operation and 
proper functioning of the electric grid in the 
event of severe damage to the electric grid due 
to physical attack, cyber attack, 
electromagnetic pulses, geomagnetic 
disturbances, severe weather, climate change, 
or seismic events; and
(ii) to facilitate the transportation of 
large power transformers, generator step-up 
transformers, power conversion equipment, 
grain-oriented electrical steel, and other 
critical electric grid equipment.
(B) Considerations.--
(i) In general.--In developing the strategy 
under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall 
consider the need for, and the feasibility of 
establishing, 1 or more federally owned 
strategic equipment reserves, as appropriate, 
to ensure nationwide access to large power 
transformers, generator step-up transformers, 
power conversion equipment, grain-oriented 
electrical steel, and other critical electric 
grid equipment.
(ii) Existing programs.--In carrying out 
subparagraph (A), the Secretary may consider 
existing spare transformer and equipment 
programs and requirements established by the 
private sector, Regional Transmission 
Organizations, Independent System Operators, 
and State regulatory authorities.
(C) Consultation required.--In carrying out this 
subsection, the Secretary shall consult with--
(i) the Federal Energy Regulatory 
Commission;
(ii) the Electricity Subsector Coordinating 
Council;
(iii) the Electric Reliability 
Organization;
(iv) manufacturers of large power 
transformers, generator step-up transformers, 
power conversion equipment, grain-oriented 
electrical steel, and other critical electric 
grid equipment;
(v) owners and operators of critical 
electric infrastructure (as defined in section 
215A(a) of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 
824o-1(a))); and
(vi) owners and operators of military 
installations (as defined in section 2801(c) of 
title 10, United States Code) and defense sites 
(as defined in section 2710(e) of that title), 
including facilities designated as critical 
defense facilities under section 215A(c) of the 
Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824o-1(c));
(3) Transformer resilience program.--In addition to the 
strategy developed under subsection (b), the Secretary shall 
establish a program--
(A) to improve large power transformers, generator 
step-up transformers, power conversion equipment, 
grain-oriented electrical steel, and other critical 
electric grid equipment by reducing vulnerabilities 
identified with respect to that equipment;
(B) to develop, test, and deploy innovative 
equipment designs, including modular designs, that are 
more flexible and offer greater resiliency with respect 
to the operation and functioning of the electric grid;
(C) to coordinate with industry and manufacturers 
to standardize large power transformers, generator 
step-up transformers, power conversion equipment, and 
other critical electric grid equipment;
(D) to monitor and test large power transformers, 
generator step-up transformers, power conversion 
equipment, and other critical electric grid equipment 
that the Secretary determines may pose a risk to the 
bulk-power system or national security; and
(E) to facilitate the domestic manufacturing of 
large power transformers, generator step-up 
transformers, power conversion equipment, grain-
oriented electrical steel, and other critical electric 
grid equipment through--
(i) the issuance of grants and loans; and
(ii) the provision of technical support.
(4) Requirement.--
(A) In general.--All laborers and mechanics 
employed by contractors or subcontractors in the 
performance of construction, alteration, or repair work 
carried out, in whole or in part, with financial 
assistance made available under this section shall be 
paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on 
projects of a character similar in the locality as 
determined by the Secretary of Labor in accordance with 
subchapter IV of chapter 31 of title 40, United States 
Code.
(B) Authority.--With respect to the labor standards 
specified in this subsection, the Secretary of Labor 
shall have the authority and functions set forth in 
Reorganization Plan Numbered 14 of 1950 (64 Stat. 1267; 
5 U.S.C. App.) and section 3145 of title 40, United 
States Code.
(5) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized 
to be appropriated to carry out this subsection $75,000,000 for 
each of fiscal years 2026 through 2030, to remain available 
until expended.

SEC. 304. STREAMLINING PERMITTING OF DISTRIBUTED ENERGY.

(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Authority having jurisdiction.--The term ``authority 
having jurisdiction'' means any State, county, local, or Tribal 
office or official with jurisdiction--
(A) to issue permits relating to qualifying 
distributed energy systems;
(B) to conduct inspections to enforce the 
requirements of a relevant code or standard relating to 
qualifying distributed energy systems; or
(C) to approve the installation of, or the 
equipment and materials used in the installation of, 
qualifying distributed energy systems.
(2) Qualifying distributed energy system.--The term 
``qualifying distributed energy system'' means any equipment or 
materials installed in, on, or near a residential building to 
support onsite or local energy use, including--
(A) to generate electricity from distributed 
renewable energy sources, including from--
(i) solar photovoltaic systems or similar 
solar energy technologies; and
(ii) wind power systems;
(B) to store and discharge electricity from 
batteries with a capacity of at least 2 kilowatt hours;
(C) to charge a plug-in electric drive vehicle at a 
power rate of at least 2 kilowatts; or
(D) to refuel a hydrogen fuel cell electric 
vehicle.
(3) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Energy.
(b) Program.--Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment 
of this Act, the Secretary, in consultation with trade associations and 
other entities representing distributed energy system installers and 
organizations representing State, local, and Tribal governments engaged 
in permitting, shall carry out a program to further develop, expand, 
and support the adoption of a voluntary streamlined permitting and 
inspection process for authorities having jurisdiction to use for the 
permitting of qualifying distributed energy systems.
(c) Activities of the Program.--In carrying out the program 
established under subsection (b), the Secretary shall--
(1) further develop and expand an exemplary streamlined 
permitting process that includes an online permitting 
platform--
(A) for expediting, standardizing, and streamlining 
permitting; and
(B) that authorities having jurisdiction may 
voluntarily use to receive, review, and approve permit 
applications relating to qualifying distributed energy 
systems;
(2) establish targets for the adoption of a streamlined, 
expedited permitting process by authorities having 
jurisdiction;
(3) provide technical assistance and training directly or 
indirectly to authorities having jurisdiction on using and 
adopting the exemplary streamlined permitting process described 
in paragraph (1), including the adoption of any necessary 
building codes;
(4) develop a voluntary inspection protocol and related 
tools to expedite, standardize, and streamline the inspection 
of qualifying distributed energy systems, including--
(A) by investigating the potential for using remote 
inspections;
(B) by investigating the potential for sample-based 
inspection for distributed energy system installers 
with a demonstrated track record of high-quality work; 
and
(C) by investigating opportunities to integrate the 
voluntary inspection protocol into the online 
permitting platform described in paragraph (1) and the 
platforms of government software providers; and
(5) take any other action to expedite, standardize, 
streamline, or improve the process for permitting, inspecting, 
or interconnecting qualifying distributed energy systems.
(d) Support Services.--The Secretary shall--
(1) support the provision of technical assistance to 
authorities having jurisdiction, any administrator of the 
online permitting platform described in subsection (c)(1), 
government software providers, and any other entity determined 
appropriate by the Secretary in carrying out the activities 
described in subsection (c); and
(2) provide such financial assistance as the Secretary 
determines appropriate from any funds appropriated to carry out 
this section.
(e) Authority Having Jurisdiction Certification Program.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary may certify authorities 
having jurisdiction that implement the exemplary streamlined 
permitting process described in subsection (c)(1).
(2) Process.--The Secretary may confer a certification 
under paragraph (1) through existing programs within the 
Department of Energy.
(3) Prizes.--The Secretary may award prizes to authorities 
having jurisdiction, using funds appropriated to the Secretary 
to carry out this section, to encourage authorities having 
jurisdiction to adopt the exemplary streamlined permitting 
process or the voluntary inspection protocol established under 
paragraphs (1) and (4) of subsection (c), respectively.
(f) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be 
appropriated to the Secretary to carry out this section $20,000,000 for 
each of fiscal years 2027 through 2030.

SEC. 305. COMMUNITY SOLAR.

(a) Establishment of Community Solar Consumer Choice Program.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 12 months after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a program 
to increase the opportunities for participation in community 
solar programs by--
(A) individuals, prioritizing individuals that do 
not have regular access to onsite solar, including low- 
and moderate-income individuals and individuals living 
in energy communities;
(B) businesses;
(C) nonprofit organizations; and
(D) States and local and Tribal governments.
(2) Alignment with existing federal programs.--The 
Secretary shall align the program established under paragraph 
(1) with existing Federal programs that serve low-income 
communities.
(3) Assistance to state, tribal, and local governments.--In 
carrying out the program established under paragraph (1), the 
Secretary shall--
(A) provide technical assistance to eligible 
entities for projects to increase the number of 
community solar facilities;
(B) assist eligible entities in the development of 
new and innovative financial and business models that 
leverage competitive processes in order to serve 
community solar subscribers; and
(C) use National Laboratories to collect and 
disseminate data to assist private entities in the 
financing of, subscription to, and operation of 
community solar programs.
(b) Federal Government Participation in Community Solar Programs.--
The Secretary shall, as the Secretary determines appropriate, expand 
the existing grant, loan, and financing programs of the Department of 
Energy to include community solar programs.
(c) Establishment of Community Solar Programs.--
(1) In general.--Section 111(d) of the Public Utility 
Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2621(d)) is amended 
by adding at the end the following:
``(22) Community solar programs.--
``(A) In general.--Each electric utility shall 
offer a community solar program that provides all 
ratepayers, including low-income ratepayers, equitable 
and demonstrable access to such community solar 
program. Such programs may include community solar 
facilities owned or operated by non-utility entities 
and shall not restrict participation to utility-owned 
facilities.
``(B) Definitions.--For the purposes of this 
paragraph:
``(i) Community solar program.--The term 
`community solar program' means a service 
provided to any electric consumer that the 
electric utility serves through which the value 
of electricity generated by a community solar 
facility may be used to reduce total charges 
billed to the electric consumer.
``(ii) Community solar facility.--The term 
`community solar facility' means a solar 
photovoltaic system that--
``(I) allocates electricity to 
multiple electric consumers of an 
electric utility;
``(II) is interconnected with the 
electric grid; and
``(III) is located either on or off 
the property of the electric consumers 
described in subclause (I).''.
(2) Compliance.--
(A) Time limitations.--Section 112(b) of the Public 
Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 
2622(b)) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(9)(A) Not later than 12 months after the date of 
enactment of this paragraph, each State regulatory authority 
(with respect to each electric utility for which the State has 
ratemaking authority) and each nonregulated electric utility 
shall commence consideration under section 111, or set a 
hearing date for consideration, with respect to the standard 
established by paragraph (22) of section 111(d).
``(B) Not later than 24 months after the date of enactment 
of this paragraph, each State regulatory authority (with 
respect to each electric utility for which the State has 
ratemaking authority), and each nonregulated electric utility 
shall complete the consideration and make the determination 
under section 111 with respect to the standard established by 
paragraph (22) of section 111(d).''.
(B) Failure to comply.--Section 112(c) of the 
Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 
U.S.C. 2622(c)) is amended--
(i) by striking ``subsection (b)(2)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (b)''; and
(ii) by adding at the end the following: 
``In the case of the standard established by 
paragraph (22) of section 111(d), the reference 
contained in this subsection to the date of 
enactment of this Act shall be deemed to be a 
reference to the date of enactment of that 
paragraph (22).''.
(C) Prior state actions.--
(i) In general.--Section 112 of the Public 
Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 
U.S.C. 2622) is amended by adding at the end 
the following:
``(i) Prior State Actions.--Subsections (b) and (c) shall not apply 
to the standard established by paragraph (22) of section 111(d) in the 
case of any electric utility in a State if, before the date of 
enactment of this subsection--
``(1) the State has implemented for the electric utility 
the standard (or a comparable standard);
``(2) the State regulatory authority for the State or the 
relevant nonregulated electric utility has conducted a 
proceeding to consider implementation of the standard (or a 
comparable standard) for the electric utility; or
``(3) the State legislature has voted on the implementation 
of the standard (or a comparable standard) for the electric 
utility.''.
(ii) Cross-reference.--Section 124 of the 
Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 
(16 U.S.C. 2634) is amended by adding at the 
end the following: ``In the case of the 
standard established by paragraph (22) of 
section 111(d), the reference contained in this 
subsection to the date of enactment of this Act 
shall be deemed to be a reference to the date 
of enactment of that paragraph (22).''.
(d) Federal Contracts for Public Utility Services.--Section 
501(b)(1) of title 40, United States Code, is amended by amending 
subparagraph (B) to read as follows:
``(B) Public utility contracts.--A contract under 
this paragraph for public utility services may be for a 
period of not more than 30 years.''.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Community solar facility; community solar program.--The 
terms ``community solar facility'' and ``community solar 
program'' have the meaning given such terms in paragraph (22) 
of section 111(d) of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act 
of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2621(d)), as added by subsection (c) of this 
section.
(2) Community solar subscriber.--The term ``community solar 
subscriber'' means an electricity customer that receives or 
purchases a proportional share of the output of a community 
solar facility under an ownership, subscription, or power 
purchase arrangement approved by the applicable regulatory 
authority.
(3) Eligible entity.--The term ``eligible entity'' means--
(A) a State or political subdivision of a State;
(B) a unit of local government;
(C) an Indian Tribe (as defined in section 4 of the 
Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act 
(25 U.S.C. 5304));
(D) a territory of the United States; or
(E) an authority, agency, or instrumentality of, or 
an entity owned by, 1 or more entities described in 
subparagraphs (A) through (D).
(4) Energy community.--The term ``energy community'' has 
the meaning given such term in section 45(b)(11) of the 
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (26 U.S.C. 45(b)(11)).
(5) National laboratories.--The term ``National 
Laboratories'' has the meaning given the term in section 2 of 
the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801).
(6) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Energy.

SEC. 306. LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY IN UNITED STATES TERRITORIES.

(a) Clean Energy Grant Program.--
(1) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Agriculture shall 
establish a renewable energy program (in this section referred 
to as the ``program'') under which the Secretary may award 
grants to covered entities to facilitate projects, in 
territories of the United States, described in paragraph (3).
(2) Applications.--To be eligible for a grant under the 
program, a covered entity shall submit to the Secretary an 
application at such time, in such form, and containing such 
information as the Secretary may require.
(3) Grant uses.--
(A) In general.--A covered entity receiving a grant 
under the program may use grant funds for a project, in 
a territory of the United States--
(i) to develop or construct a renewable 
energy system;
(ii) to carry out an activity to increase 
energy efficiency or demand flexibility;
(iii) to develop or construct an energy 
storage system or device for--
(I) a system developed or 
constructed under clause (i); or
(II) an activity carried out under 
clause (ii);
(iv) to develop or construct--
(I) a smart grid; or
(II) a microgrid; or
(v) to train residents of the territory of 
the United States to develop, construct, 
maintain, or operate a renewable energy system.
(B) Limitation.--A covered entity receiving a grant 
under the program may not use grant funds to develop or 
construct a facility that generates electricity using 
energy derived from fossil fuels.
(4) Technical assistance.--The Secretary of Energy shall 
ensure that Department of Energy national laboratories offer to 
provide technical assistance to each covered entity carrying 
out a project assisted with a grant under the program.
(5) Report.--Not later than 2 years after the establishment 
of the program, and on an annual basis thereafter, the 
Secretary shall submit to Congress a report containing--
(A) an estimate of the amount of funds disbursed 
under the program;
(B) an estimate of the energy conservation achieved 
as a result of the program;
(C) a description of challenges encountered in 
implementing projects described in paragraph (3)(A);
(D) recommendations as to additional legislative 
measures to increase the use of renewable energy in 
territories of the United States, as appropriate;
(E) recommendations for improving resilience and 
dependability of projects described in paragraph 
(3)(A);
(F) recommendations for furthering the long-term 
energy independence of U.S. territories covered by this 
program; and
(G) findings regarding the effect of this program 
on consumer energy prices and how it can be improved to 
continue lowering those prices.
(6) Authorization of appropriations.--There are authorized 
to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out 
this section.
(b) GAO Study and Report.--
(1) In general.--
(A) Study and report.--Not later than 180 days 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the 
Comptroller General of the United States shall--
(i) conduct a study regarding renewable 
energy, energy efficiency, and demand 
flexibility in territories of the United 
States; and
(ii) submit to Congress a report 
containing--
(I) the findings of the study; and
(II) related recommendations.
(B) Components.--The study conducted under 
subparagraph (A) shall consider, in relation to each 
territory of the United States, the potential--
(i) to modify existing electric power 
systems to use renewable energy sources;
(ii) to expand the use of microgrids; and
(iii) to improve energy resiliency.
(2) Authorization of appropriations.--There is authorized 
to be appropriated $1,500,000 to carry out this section.
(c) Definitions.--In this Act, the following definitions apply:
(1) Covered entity.--The term ``covered entity'' means a 
not-for-profit organization determined eligible by the 
Secretary of Agriculture for purposes of this Act.
(2) Department of energy national laboratories.--The term 
``Department of Energy national laboratories'' has the same 
meaning as the term ``National Laboratory'' under section 2 of 
the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (42 U.S.C. 15801).
(3) Microgrid.--The term ``microgrid'' means an electric 
system--
(A) that serves the local community with a power 
generation and distribution system; and
(B) that has the ability--
(i) to disconnect from a traditional 
electric grid; and
(ii) to operate autonomously when 
disconnected.
(4) Renewable energy; renewable energy system.--The terms 
``renewable energy'' and ``renewable energy system'' have the 
meanings given those terms in section 9001 of the Farm Security 
and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (7 U.S.C. 8101).
(5) Smart grid.--The term ``smart grid'' means an 
intelligent electric grid that uses digital communications 
technology, information systems, and automation to, while 
maintaining high system reliability--
(A) detect and react to local changes in usage;
(B) improve system operating efficiency; and
(C) reduce spending costs.
(6) Territory of the united states.--The term ``territory 
of the United States'' means the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, 
Guam, the United States Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the 
Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands.

TITLE IV--BUILDING OUT A 21ST CENTURY ELECTRICITY GRID

Subtitle A--Amendments to the Federal Power Act

SEC. 401. DEFINITIONS.

Section 3 of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 796) is amended by 
adding at the end the following:
``(30) Energy storage project.--The term `energy storage 
project' means equipment that receives, stores, and delivers 
energy-using batteries, compressed air, pumped hydropower, 
hydrogen storage (including hydrolysis), thermal energy 
storage, regenerative fuel cells, flywheels, capacitors, 
superconducting magnets, or other technologies identified by 
the Secretary of Energy.
``(31) Generating facility.--The term `generating facility' 
means any facility that generates electricity.
``(32) Generator tie line.--The term `generator tie line' 
means a dedicated transmission line that is used to transmit 
power from a generating facility or an energy storage project 
to a transmission facility or a transmission system.
``(33) Greenhouse gas.--The term `greenhouse gas' includes 
each of the following:
``(A) Carbon dioxide.
``(B) Methane.
``(C) Nitrous oxide.
``(D) Sulfur hexafluoride.
``(E) Any hydrofluorocarbon.
``(F) Any perfluorocarbon.
``(G) Nitrogen trifluoride.
``(H) Any fully fluorinated linear, branched, or 
cyclic--
``(i) alkane;
``(ii) ether;
``(iii) tertiary amine; or
``(iv) aminoether.
``(I) Any perfluoropolyether.
``(J) Any hydrofluoropolyether.
``(K) Any other fluorocarbon, except for a 
fluorocarbon with a vapor pressure of less than 1 mm of 
Hg absolute at 25 degrees Celsius.
``(34) Advanced transmission technology.--The term 
`advanced transmission technology' means any hardware or 
software that--
``(A) increases the capacity, efficiency, 
reliability, resilience, or safety of transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies;
``(B) is installed in addition to new or existing 
transmission facilities and transmission technologies--
``(i) to give operators of the transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies more 
situational awareness and control over the 
electric grid;
``(ii) to make the transmission facilities 
and transmission technologies more efficient; 
or
``(iii) to increase the transfer capacity 
of the transmission facilities and transmission 
technologies; and
``(C) includes, but is not limited to, dynamic line 
ratings, advanced conductors, topology optimization, 
advanced power-flow controls, and other digital or 
physical systems that increase the usable transfer 
capability of the grid.
``(35) Interconnection customer.--The term `interconnection 
customer' means an entity, or any affiliates or subsidiaries of 
an entity, that proposes to interconnect a generating facility 
or an energy storage project to a transmission facility or 
transmission system.
``(36) Transmission benefits.--The term `transmission 
benefits' means the broad range of economic, operational, 
safety, resilience, public policy, and environmental benefits 
(as assessed by the Commission in accordance with section 
224(e)) and other reasonably anticipated benefits of 
constructing, modifying, or operating a transmission facility, 
including--
``(A) improved reliability;
``(B) improved resilience;
``(C) improved safety;
``(D) reduced congestion;
``(E) reduced power losses;
``(F) greater carrying capacity;
``(G) reduced operating reserve requirements;
``(H) improved access to lower-cost electricity 
generation;
``(I) improved access to electricity generating 
facilities with no direct emissions of greenhouse 
gases;
``(J) improved public health from the closure of 
electricity generation facilities that emit harmful 
pollution;
``(K) increased competition and market liquidity in 
electricity markets;
``(L) improved energy resilience and resilience of 
Department of Defense installations;
``(M) improved ability to integrate new sources of 
electrical demand; and
``(N) other potential benefits of increasing the 
interconnectedness of the electric grid.
``(37) Network upgrade.--The term `network upgrade' means--
``(A) any addition to or expansion of any 
transmission facility or transmission system;
``(B) the construction of a new transmission 
facility that will become part of a transmission 
system;
``(C) the addition of an energy storage project to 
a transmission facility or a transmission system; or
``(D) any construction, deployment, or addition of 
an advanced transmission technology to a transmission 
facility or a transmission system that eliminates or 
reduces the need to carry out any of the activities 
described in subparagraphs (A) through (C).
``(38) Participant funding.--The term `participant funding' 
means any cost allocation method under which an interconnection 
customer is required to pay, without reimbursement, all or a 
disproportionate amount of the costs of a network upgrade that 
is determined by the Commission to be necessary to ensure the 
reliable interconnection of the interconnection customer's 
generating facility or energy storage project.
``(39) Transmission planning region.--The term 
`transmission planning region' means--
``(A) when used in a geographical sense, a region 
for which the Commission determines that electric 
transmission planning is appropriate, such as a region 
established in accordance with Order No. 1000 of the 
Commission, entitled `Transmission Planning and Cost 
Allocation by Transmission Owning and Operating Public 
Utilities' (76 Fed. Reg. 49842 (August 11, 2011)); and
``(B) when used in a corporate sense, means the 
Transmission Organization or other entity responsible 
for planning or operating electric transmission 
facilities within a region described in subparagraph 
(A).
``(40) Transmission system.--For purposes of sections 224 
and 227, the term `transmission system' means a network of 
transmission facilities used for the transmission of electric 
energy in interstate commerce.''.

SEC. 402. INTERREGIONAL ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION PLANNING.

Part II of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824 et seq.) is amended 
by adding at the end the following:

``SEC. 224. IMPROVING INTERREGIONAL ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION PLANNING.

``(a) In General.--Not later than 6 months after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Commission shall issue regulations that 
require each pair or grouping of neighboring transmission planning 
regions to jointly develop and file with the Commission a process by 
which they will develop an interregional transmission plan to identify 
and to facilitate the construction or upgrade of onshore and offshore 
electric transmission facilities that are efficient, cost-effective, 
and broadly beneficial. Such process must address the considerations in 
subsection (b) and be filed within 6 months after the regulations 
required by this paragraph are finalized. Such process must require 
development of an interregional transmission plan within at least 3 
years of the promulgation of the regulations and that a new plan be 
developed at least every 3 years thereafter, in alignment with long-
term regional transmission plans developed under Orders 1920 and 1920-A 
(89 Fed. Reg. 49280 and 89 Fed. Reg. 97174).
``(b) Considerations.--In determining the requirements for a 
process described in subsection (a), the Commission shall require that 
such process advance--
``(1) the development of transmission systems that can 
operate for a minimum of 20 years and across a wide range of 
scenarios, including scenarios that take into account--
``(A) Federal, State, and local laws and 
regulations, and other factors that affect electricity 
demand and the current and future generation resource 
mix;
``(B) trends in technology and fuel costs;
``(C) the retirement of generation facilities, 
energy storage projects, and transmission facilities;
``(D) generator interconnection requests and 
withdrawals; and
``(E) extreme weather events, including in 
anticipation of how the frequency and intensity of 
these events are projected to change over the planning 
period due to climate change;
``(2) the public interest;
``(3) the integrity of electricity markets;
``(4) the protection of consumers;
``(5) the optimization of transmission benefits;
``(6) the need for an individual interregional transmission 
project to secure approvals based on a comprehensive assessment 
of the multiple benefits provided;
``(7) the importance of synchronization of planning 
processes in neighboring transmission planning regions, such as 
using a joint model on a consistent timeline with a single set 
of needs, input assumptions, and benefit metrics;
``(8) the need for an individual interregional transmission 
project that is identified in the interregional transmission 
plan of a pair of transmission planning regions not to be 
subject to any subsequent planning process by other 
transmission planning regions;
``(9) that evaluation of long-term scenarios should align 
with the expected life of an element of a transmission system;
``(10) that a pair of transmission planning regions should 
allow for the identification and joint evaluation of 
alternatives proposed by stakeholders, and ensure meaningful 
opportunities for States, Tribes, consumer advocates, labor 
organizations, and environmental justice communities to 
participate;
``(11) the need to eliminate arbitrary project voltage, 
size, or cost requirements for transmission projects;
``(12) the applicability of a broad range of alternatives 
to the construction of transmission facilities, including 
advanced transmission technologies, demand side flexibility, 
distributed storage, load management, dynamic line rating, and 
power flow control; and
``(13) the use of data and analyses provided by the 
Secretary of Energy, including as provided by the National 
Laboratories, regarding any of the items described in 
paragraphs (1) through (12).
``(c) Report.--Not later than 12 months after the issuance of 
regulations under subsection (a) and annually thereafter, the 
Commission shall publish in the Federal Register a report on the 
progress by each pair of transmission planning regions in identifying 
and facilitating the construction of interregional electric 
transmission projects, including a description of the transmission 
benefits associated with such projects.
``(d) Environmental Benefits.--In assessing the environmental 
benefits associated with any activity undertaken pursuant to this Act, 
the Commission may use any relevant analysis or other information 
conducted or provided by the Council on Environmental Quality and the 
Environmental Protection Agency.''.

SEC. 403. ALLOCATION OF COSTS OF ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION FACILITIES OF 
NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.

Part II of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824 et seq.) is further 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``SEC. 225. ALLOCATION OF COSTS OF TRANSMISSION FACILITIES OF NATIONAL 
SIGNIFICANCE.

``(a) Allocation of Costs.--
``(1) In general.--Any transmitting utility that owns, 
controls, or operates a transmission facility of national 
significance, or proposes to own, control, or operate a 
transmission facility of national significance, may file a 
tariff with the Commission in accordance with section 205 
allocating the costs of constructing, modifying, and operating 
such transmission facility of national significance in 
accordance with paragraph (2).
``(2) Cost allocation principle.--The Commission shall 
require that any tariff described in paragraph (1) allocate the 
cost to construct, modify, and operate a transmission facility 
of national significance to customers within the applicable 
transmission planning region or regions in a manner that is 
roughly commensurate with the reasonably anticipated 
transmission benefits. Additionally, the Commission shall 
require that any proposed calculation of reasonably anticipated 
transmission benefits make the assumptions and calculations 
behind such calculation public and included in any tariff 
described in paragraph (1).
``(3) Commission authority.--If the Commission determines 
that no tariff filed under paragraph (1) provides for a just, 
reasonable, and not unduly discriminatory allocation of costs 
for a transmission facility of national significance, the 
Commission may, after notice and opportunity for hearing, 
establish or modify such allocation under section 206, 
provided, however, that nothing in this section shall prevent a 
transmitting utility from recovering such costs through 
voluntary agreement with its customers.
``(b) Definition of Transmission Facility of National 
Significance.--In this section, the term `transmission facility of 
national significance' means--
``(1) an interstate or interregional electric power 
transmission line (and any facilities necessary for the 
operation of such electric power transmission line)--
``(A) that has a transmission capacity of not less 
than 1,000 megawatts; and
``(B) the construction of which is completed on or 
after the date of enactment of this section;
``(2) an electric power transmission line or network, 
located in whole or in part offshore (including any radial, 
meshed, or shared facilities necessary for its operation), the 
construction of which is completed on or after the date of 
enactment of this section; or
``(3) an expansion of, or upgrade to, an interstate 
electric power transmission line (and any facilities necessary 
for the operation of such electric power transmission line) 
that--
``(A) increases the transmission capacity of such 
electric power transmission line by at least 500 
megawatts; and
``(B) the construction of which is completed on or 
after the date of enactment of this section.
``(c) Savings Provision.--This section does not affect the 
authority of the Commission to approve the allocation of costs of 
transmission facilities other than transmission facilities of national 
significance.''.

SEC. 404. MINIMUM INTERREGIONAL TRANSFER CAPABILITY.

Part II of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824 et seq.) is further 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``SEC. 226. PROTECTING ELECTRICITY RELIABILITY BY IMPROVING 
INTERREGIONAL TRANSFER CAPABILITY.

``(a) Rulemaking.--Notwithstanding the requirements of section 322 
of the Fiscal Responsibility Act (Public Law 118-5), not later than 24 
months after the date of enactment of the Energy Bills Relief Act, the 
Commission shall, pursuant to section 206, issue regulations that 
establish requirements for minimum transfer capability, as described 
under subsection (b), between transmission planning regions.
``(b) Minimum Transfer Capability.--The aggregate minimum 
interregional transfer capability for each transmission planning region 
and its neighboring transmission planning region shall be not less than 
30 percent of its own peak electricity demand, or in the case of a 
transmission planning region that borders only 1 other transmission 
planning region, not less than 15 percent of its own peak electricity 
demand, unless the Commission finds, upon a showing by a transmission 
planning region, that a lower transfer capability can achieve the same 
or greater transmission benefits.
``(c) Report.--Not later than 5 years after the date of enactment 
of this section and every 5 years thereafter, the Commission shall 
report to Congress on the status of interregional transfer capability, 
including on risks to reliability associated with a lack of 
interregional transfer capability.''.

SEC. 405. INCREASED FERC TRANSMISSION SITING AUTHORITY.

(a) In General.--Part II of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824 et 
seq.) is further amended by adding at the end the following:

``SEC. 227. SITING OF CERTAIN INTERSTATE ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION 
FACILITIES.

``(a) Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity.--
``(1) In general.--On receipt of an application under 
subsection (b)(1) relating to a transmission facility of 
national significance described in paragraph (2), the 
Commission, after making the finding described in paragraph (3) 
with respect to such transmission facility of national 
significance, shall, by order which is published in the Federal 
Register, issue to the person who submitted such application a 
certificate of public convenience and necessity for the 
construction, modification, or operation of such transmission 
facility of national significance, subject to such reasonable 
terms and conditions as the Commission determines to be 
appropriate.
``(2) Transmission facility of national significance 
described.--A transmission facility of national significance 
referred to in paragraph (1) is an interstate or interregional 
electric power transmission line (and any facilities necessary 
for the operation of such electric power transmission line)--
``(A) that has a transmission capacity of not less 
than 1,000 megawatts; and
``(B) the construction of which is completed on or 
after the date of enactment of this section.
``(3) Finding described.--The finding referred to in 
paragraph (1) is a finding that--
``(A) the applicant for a certificate of public 
convenience and necessity is able and willing--
``(i) to carry out the activities and 
perform the services proposed in the 
application in a manner determined to be 
appropriate by the Commission; and
``(ii) to achieve compliance with the 
applicable requirements of--
``(I) this part; and
``(II) any rules and regulations 
promulgated by the Commission pursuant 
to this part;
``(B) the transmission facility of national 
significance to be constructed, modified, or operated 
under the certificate of public convenience and 
necessity will--
``(i) be interstate or interregional;
``(ii) be used for the transmission of 
electric energy in interstate commerce; and
``(iii) have a transmission capacity of not 
less than 1,000 megawatts.
``(4) Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months after the date 
of enactment of this section, the Commission shall issue 
regulations specifying--
``(A) a pre-filing process during which a person 
described in subsection (b)(1) and the Commission shall 
consult with--
``(i) the State commission for each State 
through which the applicable transmission 
facility of national significance will 
traverse;
``(ii) appropriate Federal agencies;
``(iii) each Indian Tribe that may be 
affected by the proposed project to construct, 
modify, or operate a transmission facility of 
national significance; and
``(iv) the appropriate Transmission 
Organization;
``(B) the form of, and information to be contained 
in, an application submitted under subsection (b)(1);
``(C) requirements for determining whether the 
applicable transmission facility of national 
significance will--
``(i) traverse not fewer than 2 States;
``(ii) be used for the transmission of 
electric energy in interstate commerce; and
``(iii) have a power capacity of not less 
than 1,000 megawatts;
``(D) criteria for determining the reasonable and 
economical use of--
``(i) existing rights-of-way; and
``(ii) the transmission capabilities of 
existing towers or structures;
``(E) the manner in which an application submitted 
under subsection (b)(1) shall be considered, which, to 
the extent practicable, shall be consistent with State 
statutory and regulatory policies concerning generation 
and retail sales of electricity in the States in which 
the electric energy transmitted by the transmission 
facility of national significance will be generated or 
sold; and
``(F) the manner in which the Commission will 
consider the needs of communities that will be impacted 
directly by the applicable transmission facility of 
national significance, including how any impacts of the 
transmission facility of national significance could be 
mitigated or offset.
``(5) Publication, public comment, and hearings for certain 
notice of intent and draft environmental impact statements.--
``(A) Publication.--The Commission shall publish in 
the Federal Register a notice of intent to prepare an 
environmental document under the National Environmental 
Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) with 
respect to an application for a certificate of public 
convenience and necessity that has been submitted under 
subsection (b)(1).
``(B) Public comment.--The Commission shall provide 
not less than 60 days for public comment on each notice 
of intent and draft environmental impact statement 
published under subparagraph (A).
``(C) Hearing.--The Commission shall provide to the 
individuals and entities described in paragraph (6)(B) 
a reasonable opportunity for presentation, in at least 
1 public hearing, of any views and recommendations on 
each notice of intent and each draft environmental 
impact statement published under subparagraph (A). The 
Commission shall publish in the Federal Register notice 
of any hearing held under this subparagraph.
``(6) Notice and opportunity for a hearing on 
applications.--
``(A) In general.--In any proceeding before the 
Commission to consider an application for a certificate 
of public convenience and necessity under this section, 
the Commission shall--
``(i) publish a notice of the application 
in the Federal Register;
``(ii) provide written notice of such 
application to all affected landowners in 
accordance with subsection (c); and
``(iii) provide to the individuals and 
entities described in subparagraph (B) a notice 
and reasonable opportunity for the presentation 
in at least 1 public hearing of any views and 
recommendations with respect to the need for, 
and impact of, the construction, modification, 
or operation of the transmission facility of 
national significance proposed to be 
constructed, modified, or operated under the 
certificate.
``(B) Individuals and entities described.--The 
individuals and entities referred to in subparagraph 
(A) are--
``(i) an agency, selected by the Governor 
(or equivalent official) of the applicable 
State, of each State in which the transmission 
facility of national significance proposed to 
be constructed, modified, or operated under the 
applicable certificate of public convenience 
and necessity is or will be located;
``(ii) each affected landowner; and
``(iii) as determined by the Commission--
``(I) each affected Federal agency; 
and
``(II) each Indian Tribe that may 
be affected by the proposed 
construction, modification, or 
operation.
``(C) Prohibition.--The Commission may not--
``(i) require an applicant for a 
certificate of public convenience and necessity 
under this section to provide any notice 
required under this section; or
``(ii) enter into a contract to provide any 
notice required under this section with--
``(I) the applicant for the 
applicable certificate of public 
convenience and necessity; or
``(II) any other person that has a 
financial interest in the project 
proposed in the application for such 
certificate.
``(b) Applications.--
``(1) In general.--A person desiring a certificate of 
public convenience and necessity under this section shall 
submit to the Commission an application at such time, in such 
manner, and containing such information as the Commission may 
require.
``(2) Requirement.--An application submitted to the 
Commission under paragraph (1) shall include all information 
necessary for the Commission to make the finding described in 
subsection (a)(3).
``(c) Notice to Affected Landowners.--
``(1) In general.--The Commission shall provide written 
notice of an application submitted under subsection (b)(1) to 
all affected landowners with respect to the transmission 
facility of national significance for which such application 
was submitted in accordance with this subsection.
``(2) Requirements.--Any notice provided to an affected 
landowner under paragraph (1) shall include the following:
``(A) The following statement in 14-point bold 
typeface:
```The [name of applicant] has proposed building power 
lines that will cross your property, and may also 
require building transmission towers on your property. 
If the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approves 
[applicant]'s proposed project, then [applicant] may 
have the right to build transmission towers on, and 
power lines over, your property, or use your property 
to construct the proposed project, subject to paying 
you just compensation for the loss of your property.
```If you want to raise objections to, offer support 
for, or otherwise comment on this, or otherwise comment 
on this project, you can do so by submitting written 
comments to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 
Docket No. [___]. You can do this electronically or by 
mail. To do so electronically [to be inserted by the 
Commission]. To do so by mail [to be inserted by the 
Commission].'.
``(B) A description of the proposed project to 
construct, modify, or operate a transmission facility 
of national significance, including--
``(i) the location of the proposed project 
(including a general location map);
``(ii) the purpose of the proposed project; 
and
``(iii) the timing of the proposed project.
``(C) The name of, and the location in the docket 
of the Commission at which may be found, each 
submission by the applicant to the Commission relating 
to the proposed project.
``(D) A general description of what the applicant 
will need from the landowner if the proposed project is 
approved, including the activities the applicant may 
undertake and the facilities that the applicant may 
seek to construct on the property of the landowner.
``(E) A description of how the landowner may 
contact the applicant, including--
``(i) a website;
``(ii) an email address;
``(iii) a local or toll-free telephone 
number; and
``(iv) the name of a specific person to 
contact who is knowledgeable about the proposed 
project.
``(F) A description of how the landowner may 
contact the Commission, including--
``(i) a website;
``(ii) an email address;
``(iii) a local or toll-free telephone 
number; and
``(iv) the name of a specific person to 
contact who is knowledgeable about the proposed 
project.
``(G) A summary of the rights that the landowner 
has--
``(i) before the Commission; and
``(ii) in other proceedings under--
``(I) the Federal Rules of Civil 
Procedure; and
``(II) the eminent domain rules of 
the relevant State.
``(H) Any other information that the Commission 
determines to be appropriate.
``(3) Obligation of applicant.--An applicant for a 
certificate of public convenience and necessity under this 
section shall submit to the Commission, together with the 
application for the certificate, the name and address of each 
affected landowner.
``(d) Regulatory Jurisdiction.--
``(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2) and 
notwithstanding section 216(i), no State shall regulate any 
aspect of the siting or permitting of a transmission facility 
of national significance constructed, modified, or operated 
under a certificate of public convenience and necessity issued 
under this section.
``(2) Savings clause.--Nothing in this section affects the 
rights of States under--
``(A) the Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (16 
U.S.C. 1451 et seq.);
``(B) the Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 
U.S.C. 1251 et seq.);
``(C) the Clean Air Act (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.); 
or
``(D) division A of subtitle III of title 54, 
United States Code (formerly known as the `National 
Historic Preservation Act').
``(3) Tribal consent for certain rights-of-way.--No right-
of-way over or across Tribal land may be granted pursuant to 
this section unless consent for the right-of-way has been 
obtained from the proper Tribal official in a manner consistent 
with the requirements of section 2 of the Act of February 5, 
1948 (62 Stat. 18, chapter 45; 25 U.S.C. 324).
``(e) Judicial Review.--
``(1) In general.--Any person aggrieved by an order of the 
Commission issued under this section may obtain review of the 
order in--
``(A) the court of appeals of the United States for 
any judicial circuit in which the transmission facility 
of national significance to be constructed, modified, 
or operated under the applicable certificate of public 
convenience and necessity is or will be located; or
``(B) the United States Court of Appeals for the 
District of Columbia Circuit.
``(2) Petition for review.--
``(A) In general.--A person may obtain review under 
paragraph (1) by filing in the applicable court a 
written petition praying that the order of the 
Commission be modified or set aside in whole or in 
part.
``(B) Timing.--A petition under subparagraph (A) 
shall be filed by not later than 60 days after the date 
on which the applicable order of the Commission is 
published in the Federal Register.
``(3) Person aggrieved.--Notwithstanding any other 
provision of this Act, a person aggrieved by an order of the 
Commission issued under this section need not--
``(A) have been a party to the proceedings before 
the Commission in which that order was issued in order 
to obtain judicial review of the order under this 
subsection; or
``(B) have requested rehearing before the 
Commission prior to seeking judicial review.
``(f) Right of Eminent Domain for Electric Transmission 
Facilities.--
``(1) In general.--The holder of a certificate of public 
convenience and necessity may acquire through the exercise of 
the right of eminent domain in a court described in paragraph 
(2) any right-of-way, land, or other property that is necessary 
to construct, modify, or operate a transmission facility of 
national significance in accordance with such certificate if 
the holder has, in the determination of the Commission, made 
good faith efforts to engage with landowners and other 
stakeholders early in the permitting process established under 
this section, and--
``(A) cannot acquire the necessary right-of-way, 
land, or other property by contract;
``(B) is unable to agree with the owner of the 
right-of-way, land, or other property with respect to 
the compensation to be paid for that right-of-way, 
land, or other property; or
``(C) cannot clear defective title with respect to 
the right-of-way, land, or other property.
``(2) Court described.--A court referred to in paragraph 
(1) is--
``(A) the district court of the United States for 
the district in which the applicable right-of-way, 
land, or other property is located; or
``(B) the appropriate State court.
``(3) Notice of order issuing certificate.--The holder of a 
certificate of public convenience and necessity may not 
exercise the right of eminent domain under this subsection with 
respect to any property covered by the certificate unless the 
Commission has first, in addition to publishing the notice of 
certificate of public convenience and necessity in the Federal 
Register, provided all affected landowners with notice of--
``(A) the order; and
``(B) the procedures for obtaining judicial review 
of such order under subsection (e), including a 
description of the time period for seeking judicial 
review under that subsection.
``(g) Condemnation Procedures.--
``(1) Appraisals.--
``(A) In general.--A holder of, or applicant for, a 
certificate of public convenience and necessity shall 
have any property that the holder or applicant seeks to 
acquire through the exercise of the right of eminent 
domain under subsection (f) appraised in accordance 
with generally accepted appraisal standards by an 
appraiser selected by the owner of the property, 
subject to subparagraph (D).
``(B) Requirements.--
``(i) Costs.--The applicable holder of, or 
applicant for, a certificate of public 
convenience and necessity shall pay for each 
appraisal carried out under subparagraph (A).
``(ii) Inspections.--The owner of the 
applicable property (or a designated 
representative of the owner) shall be given the 
opportunity to accompany the appraiser during 
any inspection of the property that is part of 
an appraisal under subparagraph (A).
``(C) Timing.--An appraisal under subparagraph (A) 
shall be carried out before--
``(i) the holder of, or applicant for, the 
certificate of public convenience and necessity 
makes an offer of just compensation under 
paragraph (2); or
``(ii) the holder of the certificate of 
public convenience and necessity commences an 
action or proceeding to exercise the right of 
eminent domain under subsection (f).
``(D) Selection of appraiser.--If the owner of the 
applicable property does not select an appraiser under 
subparagraph (A) by the date that is 60 days after the 
date on which the holder of, or applicant for, the 
applicable certificate of public convenience and 
necessity requests that the owner do so, the holder or 
applicant shall have the right to select the appraiser.
``(2) Offers of just compensation.--
``(A) In general.--Any offer of just compensation 
made to an affected landowner of property that is or 
will be covered by a certificate of public convenience 
and necessity--
``(i) shall be made in writing;
``(ii) may not be for an amount less than 
the fair market value of the property, as 
determined by an appraisal carried out under 
paragraph (1); and
``(iii) shall include compensation for--
``(I) any lost income from the 
property; and
``(II) any damages to any other 
property of the owner.
``(B) Timing.--The holder of a certificate of 
public convenience and necessity may not make an offer 
of just compensation to an affected landowner until the 
date that is 30 days after the date on which the 
Commission provides a notice to the affected landowner 
under subsection (f)(3).
``(3) Jurisdictional limitations.--
``(A) Minimum jurisdictional amount.--A district 
court of the United States shall only have jurisdiction 
of an action or proceeding to exercise the right of 
eminent domain under subsection (f) if the amount 
claimed by the owner of the property to be condemned 
exceeds $3,000.
``(B) Tribal land.--A district court of the United 
States shall have no jurisdiction to condemn any 
interest in Tribal land.
``(4) Limitation on condemnation.--In any action or 
proceeding to exercise the right of eminent domain under 
subsection (f), a court--
``(A) may condemn an interest in property only to 
the extent necessary for the specific facilities 
described in the applicable certificate of public 
convenience and necessity; and
``(B) may not--
``(i) condemn any other interest; or
``(ii) condemn an interest for any purpose 
not described in that certificate.
``(5) Right of possession.--With respect to any action or 
proceeding to exercise the right of eminent domain under 
subsection (f), an owner of property that is covered by the 
applicable certificate of public convenience and necessity 
shall not be required to surrender possession of that property 
unless the holder of the certificate--
``(A) has paid to the owner the award of 
compensation in the action or proceeding; or
``(B) has deposited the amount of that award with 
the court.
``(6) Litigation costs.--
``(A) In general.--A holder of a certificate of 
public convenience and necessity that commences an 
action or proceeding to exercise the right of eminent 
domain under subsection (f) shall be liable to the 
owner of any property condemned in that proceeding for 
the costs described in subparagraph (B) if the amount 
awarded to that owner for the property condemned is 
more than 125 percent of the amount offered to the 
owner by the holder before the commencement of that 
action or proceeding.
``(B) Costs described.--The costs referred to in 
subparagraph (A) are litigation costs incurred for the 
action or proceeding described in that subparagraph by 
the owner of the property condemned, including--
``(i) reasonable attorney fees;
``(ii) expert witness fees and costs; and
``(iii) reasonable travel costs to 
participate in proceedings.
``(h) Enforcement of Conditions.--
``(1) In general.--An affected landowner the property of 
which has been acquired by eminent domain under subsection (f) 
shall have the right--
``(A) to enforce any condition in the applicable 
certificate of public convenience and necessity; and
``(B) to seek damages for a violation of any 
condition described in subparagraph (A).
``(2) Jurisdiction.--The district courts of the United 
States shall have jurisdiction over any action arising under 
paragraph (1).
``(i) Other Landowner Rights and Protections.--
``(1) Failure to timely complete projects.--
``(A) Surrender of condemned property.--
``(i) In general.--An individual or entity 
from which an interest in property is acquired 
through the exercise of the right of eminent 
domain under subsection (f) by the holder of a 
certificate of public convenience and necessity 
that is issued for the construction, 
modification, or operation of a transmission 
facility of national significance may demand 
that the holder of the certificate surrender 
that interest to that individual or entity if--
``(I)(aa) the transmission facility 
of national significance is not in 
operation (as modified, in the case of 
a modification of a transmission 
facility of national significance) by 
the date specified in the certificate 
(including any modification of the 
certificate by the Commission); and
``(bb) there is no request for the 
extension of that date pending before 
the Commission; or
``(II) subject to clause (ii), the 
holder of the certificate, with the 
approval of the Commission, abandons 
the portion of the transmission 
facility of national significance that 
is located on the applicable property 
relating to that interest.
``(ii) Requirement.--The Commission may not 
approve in a certificate of public convenience 
and necessity issued under this section or in 
any subsequent proceeding the abandonment of 
all or any part of a transmission facility of 
national significance unless the Commission 
requires the holder of the applicable 
certificate of public convenience and necessity 
to offer to each individual or entity described 
in clause (i) the option of having the property 
acquired from that individual or entity as 
described in that clause restored to the 
condition that the property was in prior to the 
issuance of the certificate.
``(B) Repayment of condemnation award.--If an 
individual or entity described in subparagraph (A)(i) 
demands the surrender of an interest under that 
subparagraph, the holder of the applicable certificate 
of public convenience and necessity shall be entitled 
to repayment of an amount equal to not more than 50 
percent of the condemnation award relating to the 
interest.
``(C) Jurisdiction.--The district courts of the 
United States shall have jurisdiction over any action 
arising under this paragraph.
``(2) Material misrepresentations.--
``(A) Rescission of transaction.--
``(i) In general.--An individual or entity 
from which an interest in property is acquired 
through the exercise of the right of eminent 
domain under subsection (f) that proves, by a 
preponderance of the evidence, that the 
individual or entity has granted a right-of-way 
or any other property interest based on a 
material misrepresentation made by or on behalf 
of an applicant for, or holder of, a 
certificate of public convenience and necessity 
under this section concerning the transmission 
facility of national significance to be 
constructed, modified, or operated under the 
certificate shall have the right to rescind the 
transaction.
``(ii) Jurisdiction.--The district courts 
of the United States shall have jurisdiction 
over any action arising under clause (i).
``(B) Civil penalties.--A material 
misrepresentation made by an applicant for, or holder 
of, a certificate of public convenience and necessity, 
or on behalf of such an applicant or holder, to an 
affected landowner concerning the transmission facility 
of national significance to be constructed, modified, 
or operated under the certificate, shall be considered 
to be a violation of this part for purposes of section 
316A and such applicant or holder shall be assessed a 
civil penalty by the Commission in accordance with such 
section 316A, except the amount of such civil penalty 
may not exceed $10,000 per affected landowner to whom 
the misrepresentation was made.
``(j) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Affected landowner.--
``(A) In general.--The term `affected landowner' 
includes each owner of a property interest in land or 
other property described in subparagraph (B), 
including--
``(i) the Federal Government;
``(ii) a State or local government; and
``(iii) each owner noted in the most recent 
county or city tax record as receiving the 
relevant tax notice with respect to that 
interest.
``(B) Land and other property described.--The land 
or other property described in this subparagraph is any 
land or other property--
``(i) that is directly affected by the 
proposed construction, modification, or 
operation of a transmission facility of 
national significance, including all facility 
sites;
``(ii) that is located within the greater 
of--
``(I) 0.25 miles from a proposed 
facility site for a transmission 
facility of national significance; or
``(II) a minimum distance from the 
proposed transmission facility of 
national significance as specified by 
State law; or
``(iii) contains a residence that is within 
3,000 feet of a proposed facility site for a 
transmission facility of national significance.
``(2) Alternating current transmission facility.--The term 
`alternating current transmission facility' means a 
transmission facility that uses alternating current for the 
bulk transmission of electric energy.
``(3) Electric power transmission line.--The term `electric 
power transmission line' means, as applicable--
``(A) an alternating current transmission facility;
``(B) a high-voltage, direct current transmission 
facility; or
``(C) infrastructure associated with an alternating 
current transmission facility or a high-voltage, direct 
current transmission facility, including substations 
and switchyards.
``(4) Facility site.--The term `facility site' includes--
``(A) an area covered by a right-of-way;
``(B) an access road;
``(C) a contractor yard where equipment and 
material are stored or where assembly work is 
conducted; and
``(D) any temporary workspace.
``(5) High-voltage, direct current transmission facility.--
The term `high-voltage, direct current transmission facility' 
means a transmission facility that uses direct current for the 
bulk transmission of electric energy.
``(6) Tribal land.--The term `Tribal land' has the meaning 
given the term `Indian land' in section 2601 of the Energy 
Policy Act of 1992 (25 U.S.C. 3501).''.
(b) Conforming Changes to the Federal Power Act.--
(1) Siting of interstate electric transmission 
facilities.--Section 216 of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 
824p) is amended--
(A) in subsection (b)(2), by inserting ``(including 
transmission of electric energy from the outer 
Continental Shelf to a State)'' after ``interstate 
commerce''; and
(B) in subsection (h)--
(i) by amending paragraph (2) to read as 
follows:
``(2) Lead agency.--For the purposes of coordinating all 
applicable Federal authorizations and related environmental 
reviews--
``(A) the Commission shall act as the lead agency 
in the case of--
``(i) except as provided in subparagraph 
(B), a transmission facility of national 
significance in a national interest electric 
transmission corridor designated by the 
Secretary under subsection (a); or
``(ii) a transmission facility of national 
significance for which an application has been 
submitted for a certificate of public 
convenience and necessity under section 227;
``(B) the Department of the Interior shall act as 
the lead agency in the case of a transmission facility 
of national significance in a national interest 
electric transmission corridor designated by the 
Secretary under subsection (a) that is located on a 
lease, easement, or right-of-way granted by the 
Secretary of the Interior under section 8(p)(1)(C) of 
the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 
1337(p)(1)(C)); and
``(C) the Department of Energy shall act as the 
lead agency in the case of any other transmission 
facility of national significance.'';
(ii) in each of paragraphs (3), (4)(B), 
(4)(C), (5)(B), (6)(A), (7)(A), (8)(A)(i), and 
(9), by striking ``Secretary'' each place it 
appears and inserting ``applicable lead 
agency'';
(iii) in paragraph (4)(A), by striking ``As 
head of the lead agency, the Secretary'' and 
inserting ``The applicable lead agency'';
(iv) in paragraph (5)(A), by striking ``As 
lead agency head, the Secretary'' and inserting 
``The applicable lead agency''; and
(v) in paragraph (7)--
(I) in subparagraph (A), by 
striking ``after the date of enactment 
of this section'' and inserting ``after 
the date of enactment of the Energy 
Bills Relief Act''; and
(II) in subparagraph (B), by 
amending clause (i) to read as follows:
``(i) Not later than six months after the date of enactment 
of the Energy Bills Relief Act, the Secretary, the Commission, 
and the heads of all Federal agencies with authority to issue 
Federal authorizations shall enter into a memorandum of 
understanding to ensure the timely and coordinated review and 
permitting of electric transmission facilities.''.
(2) Transmission infrastructure investment.--Section 
219(b)(4)(B) of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824s(b)(4)(B)) 
is amended by striking ``section 216'' and inserting ``sections 
216 and 227''.

SEC. 406. PROHIBITING EXPENSIVE, UNJUST QUEUE JUMPING.

Part II of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824 et seq.) is further 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``SEC. 228. LIMITATION ON CERTAIN PROCEDURES TO EXPEDITE 
INTERCONNECTION REQUESTS.

``(a) Limitation.--The Commission may not establish or authorize a 
covered procedure unless--
``(1) the Commission finds, by clear and convincing 
evidence and in accordance with subsection (b), that reliance 
upon existing procedures for processing interconnection 
requests would jeopardize the reliable operation of the bulk-
power system by failing to address predicted demand for 
electric energy;
``(2) such covered procedure--
``(A) provides only for a one-time opportunity to 
submit applications for generators to interconnect with 
the bulk power system;
``(B) only allows for the adjustment of a generator 
interconnection queue to prioritize an interconnection 
on the basis of the potential for such interconnection 
to address the continued reliable operation of the 
bulk-power system, as determined by the Commission 
consistent with subsection (c); and
``(C) does not provide for the prioritization of 
generating facilities or energy storage systems based 
upon the means by which the energy is generated or 
stored, respectively.
``(b) Finding Requirements.--In making the finding under subsection 
(a)(1), the Commission shall--
``(1) use predictions of growth in the demand for electric 
energy that are based on the best available data and account 
for the possibility of duplicative load interconnection 
requests by customers with high demand for electric energy, 
including by averaging such predictions if there is a range; 
and
``(2) account for the energy generation and storage 
capacity likely to enter commercial operation by using surplus 
interconnection service and generator replacement or 
interconnection right transfer processes.
``(c) Determinations for Priority.--To make a determination 
referred to in subsection (a)(2)(B), the Commission must determine--
``(1) the adjustment of a generator interconnection queue 
has the demonstrated ability to allow a prioritized energy 
generating facility or storage system to commence operation 
prior to the potential unreliable operation of the bulk-power 
system, taking into consideration factors such as if such 
prioritized facility or system--
``(A) has signed an engineering agreement;
``(B) has signed contracts for procurement or 
construction relating to such prioritized facility or 
system;
``(C) has access to any equipment necessary to be 
procured in advance;
``(D) has access to any fuel necessary for the 
operation of such prioritized facility or system;
``(E) has obtained any necessary permits for the 
construction or operation of such prioritized facility 
or system; and
``(F) would require extensive construction or 
modification to relevant electric transmission or 
distribution infrastructure.
``(d) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Bulk-power system; reliable operation.--The terms 
`bulk-power system' and `reliable operation' have the meanings 
given those terms in section 215.
``(2) Covered procedure.--
``(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (B), the 
term `covered procedure' means a procedure to expedite 
the study and processing of generator interconnection 
requests for certain generating facilities or energy 
storage systems that--
``(i) previously submitted such a request; 
and
``(ii) but for such procedure, would 
otherwise be assigned a higher position in the 
generator interconnection queue.
``(B) The term `covered procedure' shall not 
include any procedure to expedite requests for 
generator interconnection relating to requests for 
energy-resource interconnection service, connect-and-
manage approaches, reassigning surplus interconnection 
service, or reassigning generator interconnection 
rights after the retirement of a generating facility or 
energy storage system.''.

Subtitle B--Tax and Grants

SEC. 411. TRANSMISSION INVESTMENT TAX CREDIT.

(a) In General.--Subpart E of part IV of subchapter A of chapter 1 
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by inserting after 
section 48E the following:

``SEC. 48F. QUALIFYING ELECTRIC POWER TRANSMISSION LINE CREDIT.

``(a) Allowance of Credit.--For purposes of section 46, the 
qualifying electric power transmission line credit for any taxable year 
is an amount equal to 6 percent of the qualified investment for such 
taxable year with respect to any qualifying electric power transmission 
line property of the taxpayer.
``(b) Qualified Investment.--
``(1) In general.--For purposes of subsection (a), the 
qualified investment for any taxable year is the basis of any 
qualifying electric power transmission line property placed in 
service by the taxpayer during such taxable year.
``(2) Certain qualified progress expenditures rules made 
applicable.--Rules similar to the rules of subsections (c)(4) 
and (d) of section 46 (as in effect on the day before the date 
of the enactment of the Revenue Reconciliation Act of 1990) 
shall apply for purposes of this section.
``(c) Qualifying Electric Power Transmission Line Property.--For 
purposes of this section, the term `qualifying electric power 
transmission line property' means any overhead, submarine, or 
underground property--
``(1) which is a qualifying electric power transmission 
line that transmits electricity--
``(A) across no fewer than 2 States or not less 
than 150 continuous miles, or
``(B) across the Outer Continental Shelf (as 
defined in section 2 of the Outer Continental Lands Act 
(43 U.S.C. 1331)), or
``(2) which is related transmission property.
``(d) Qualifying Electric Power Transmission Line.--For purposes of 
this section--
``(1) In general.--The term `qualifying electric power 
transmission line' means any applicable new transmission 
property and any modified existing transmission property.
``(2) Applicable new transmission property.--
``(A) In general.--The term `applicable new 
transmission property' means any electric power 
transmission line which is--
``(i) originally placed in service after 
the date of the enactment of this section,
``(ii) primarily used for 1 or more 
purposes described in subparagraph (B), and
``(iii) described in subparagraph (C).
``(B) Purposes described.--The purposes described 
in this subparagraph are--
``(i) enhancing resilience to prepare for, 
withstand, and recover rapidly from disruptions 
from the impact of weather events, wildfires, 
or natural disasters,
``(ii) addressing clearance concerns,
``(iii) facilitating the interconnection of 
electric power generation capacity to the bulk-
power system (as defined in section 215 of the 
Federal Power Act), or
``(iv) addressing high load needs of 2,000 
ampere and above.
``(C) Additional requirements for new transmission 
property.--An electric power transmission line is 
described in this subparagraph if--
``(i) such transmission line--
``(I) includes an advanced 
transmission conductor, and
``(II) is capable of transmitting 
electricity at a voltage of not less 
than 100 kilovolts, or
``(ii) such transmission line--
``(I) is a superconducting 
transmission line or is capable of 
transmitting electricity at a voltage 
of at least 345 kilovolts, and
``(II) has a transmission capacity 
of not less than 750 megawatts or is a 
transmission line described in 
subparagraph (D).
``(D) Multiple transmission lines located in the 
same right-of-way.--A transmission line is described in 
this subparagraph if such a transmission line--
``(i) is co-located in the same right-of-
way or adjacent right-of-way as 1 or more other 
overhead, submarine, or underground 
transmission lines, and
``(ii) together with the other transmission 
lines described in subparagraph (A), has a 
transmission capacity of not less than 1,000 
megawatts.
``(3) Modified existing transmission property.--The term 
`modified existing transmission property' means any electric 
power transmission line which--
``(A) was placed in service before the date of the 
enactment of this section,
``(B) is modified after the date of enactment of 
this Act in a manner that--
``(i) increases the transmission capacity 
of such transmission line by not less than 500 
megawatts, or
``(ii) includes an advanced transmission 
conductor that transmits electricity at a 
voltage of not less than 100 kilovolts, and
``(C) after the completion of such modification, is 
an electric power transmission line which satisfies the 
requirements under subclauses (ii) and (iii) of 
paragraph (2)(A).
``(4) Advanced transmission conductor.--The term `advanced 
transmission conductor' means a transmission conductor 
technology that uses recently developed technology or materials 
such as a composite core and such other future advances as 
determined by the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary 
of Energy.
``(5) Superconducting transmission line.--The term 
`superconducting transmission line' means a transmission line 
that conducts all of its current over a super-conducting 
material.
``(e) Related Transmission Property.--For purposes of this 
section--
``(1) In general.--The term `related transmission property' 
means any of the following:
``(A) Transmission property used for 
interconnection or generator tie-line.--Any electric 
power transmission line which is--
``(i) placed in service after the date of 
enactment of this section,
``(ii) primarily used--
``(I) as a generator 
interconnection tie line at an 
associated facility that extends from 
the secondary (high) side of a 
generator step-up transformer to the 
point of interconnection with the host 
transmission owner from interconnecting 
new generation resources or facilities 
to the electric grid, or
``(II) for network upgrades 
associated with the interconnection of 
new generation resources or facilities 
to the electric grid,
``(iii) primarily used for 1 or more 
purposes described in subsection (d)(2)(B), and
``(iv) capable of transmitting electricity 
at a voltage of not less than 230 kilovolts.
``(B) Grid enhancing technology.--Any grid 
enhancing technology property used in the operation of 
the electric power transmission line described in 
paragraph (2) or (3) of subsection (d).
``(C) Subcomponents.--Any conductors or cables, 
towers, insulators, reactors, capacitors, circuit 
breakers, static VAR compensators, static synchronous 
compensators, power converters, transformers, 
synchronous condensers, braking resistors, and any 
ancillary facilities and equipment necessary for the 
proper operation of the electric power transmission 
line described in paragraph (2) or (3) of subsection 
(d) or for the proper operation of any property 
described in subsection (d)(2).
``(2) Grid enhancing technology property.--The term `grid 
enhancing technology property' means power flow controls and 
transmission switching equipment, storage technology, and 
hardware or software that enables dynamic line ratings, 
advanced line rating management technologies, on new or 
existing transmission property for the purpose of enhancing the 
capacity, efficiency, resiliency, or reliability of an electric 
power transmission system and such other similar property 
determined by the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary 
of Energy.
``(f) Increased Credit Amount for Certain Transmission Line 
Property.--
``(1) In general.--In the case of any qualifying electric 
power transmission line property which meets the requirements 
of paragraph (2), the amount of credit determined under 
subsection (a) (determined without regard to this subsection) 
shall be equal to such amount multiplied by 5.
``(2) Facility requirements.--Qualifying electric power 
transmission line property shall be treated as meeting the 
requirements of this paragraph if--
``(A) the construction of such property meets rules 
similar to the rules of section 48(a)(10) (relating to 
prevailing wage requirements) and section 45(b)(8) 
(relating to apprenticeship requirements), or
``(B) the construction of such property begins 
before the date that is 60 days after the Secretary 
publishes guidance with respect to the requirements 
under subparagraph (A).
``(g) Termination.--This section shall not apply to any property 
the construction of which begins after December 31, 2035.''.
(b) Public Utility Property.--Paragraph (2) of section 50(d) of the 
Internal Revenue Code is amended--
(1) by striking ``(as defined in section 48(c)(6))'' and 
inserting ``(as defined in section 48(c)(6), except that 
subparagraph (D) of such section shall not apply) or any 
qualifying electric power transmission line property (as 
defined by section 48F(c))'', and
(2) in subparagraph (B)--
(A) by inserting ``or qualifying electric power 
transmission line property'' after ``each energy 
storage technology'', and
(B) by inserting ``or the qualifying electric power 
transmission line property'' after ``the energy storage 
technology''.
(c) Transfer of Certain Credits.--Section 6418(f)(1)(A) of the 
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
``(xiii) The qualifying electric power 
transmission line credit under section 48F.''.
(d) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Section 46 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is 
amended--
(A) in paragraph (6), by striking ``and'' at the 
end,
(B) in paragraph (7), by striking the period at the 
end and inserting ``, and'', and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(8) the qualifying electric power transmission line 
credit.''.
(2) Section 49(a)(1)(C) of such Code is amended--
(A) in clause (vii), by striking ``and'' at the 
end,
(B) in clause (viii), by striking the period at the 
end and inserting ``, and'', and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(ix) the basis of any qualifying electric 
power transmission line property under section 
48F.''.
(3) The table of sections for subpart E of part IV of 
subchapter A of chapter 1 of such Code is amended by inserting 
after the item relating to section 48E the following new item:

``Sec. 48F. Qualifying electric power transmission line credit.''.
(e) Effective Date.--The amendments made by this section shall 
apply to property placed in service after December 31, 2025.

SEC. 412. REDUCED WILDFIRE RISKS TO THE GRID.

(a) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Eligible entity.--The term ``eligible entity'' means--
(A) an electric grid operator;
(B) an electricity storage operator;
(C) an electricity generator;
(D) a transmission owner or operator;
(E) a distribution provider;
(F) a fuel supplier; and
(G) any other relevant entity, as determined by the 
Secretary.
(2) Power line.--The term ``power line'' includes a 
transmission line or a distribution line, as applicable.
(3) Program.--The term ``program'' means the program 
established under subsection (b).
(b) Establishment of Program.--Not later than days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall establish a program under 
which the Secretary shall make grants to eligible entities, States, and 
Indian Tribes in accordance with this section.
(c) Grants to Eligible Entities.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary may make a grant under the 
program to an eligible entity to carry out activities that--
(A) are supplemental to existing hardening efforts 
of the eligible entity planned for any given year; and
(B)(i) reduce the risk of any power lines owned or 
operated by the eligible entity causing a wildfire; or
(ii) increase the ability of the eligible 
entity to reduce the likelihood and 
consequences of wildfires.
(2) Application.--
(A) In general.--An eligible entity desiring a 
grant under the program shall submit to the Secretary 
an application at such time, in such manner, and 
containing such information as the Secretary may 
require.
(B) Requirement.--As a condition of receiving a 
grant under the program, an eligible entity shall 
submit to the Secretary, as part of the application of 
the eligible entity submitted under subparagraph (A), a 
report detailing past, current, and future efforts by 
the eligible entity to reduce the likelihood and 
consequences of wildfires.
(3) Limitation.--The Secretary may not award a grant to an 
eligible entity in an amount that is greater than the total 
amount that the eligible entity has spent in the previous 3 
years on efforts to reduce the likelihood and consequences of 
wildfires.
(4) Priority.--In making grants to eligible entities under 
the program, the Secretary shall give priority to projects 
that, in the determination of the Secretary, will generate the 
greatest community benefit (whether rural or urban) in reducing 
the likelihood and consequences of wildfires.
(5) Small utilities set aside.--The Secretary shall ensure 
that not less than 30 percent of the amounts made available to 
eligible entities under the program are made available to 
eligible entities that sell not more than 4,000,000 megawatt 
hours of electricity per year.
(d) Grants to States and Indian Tribes.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary, in accordance with this 
subsection, may make grants under the program to States and 
Indian Tribes, which each State or Indian Tribe may use to 
award grants to eligible entities.
(2) Annual application.--
(A) In general.--For each fiscal year, to be 
eligible to receive a grant under this subsection, a 
State or Indian Tribe shall submit to the Secretary an 
application that includes a plan described in 
subparagraph (B).
(B) Plan required.--A plan prepared by a State or 
Indian Tribe for purposes of an application described 
in subparagraph (A) shall--
(i) describe the criteria and methods that 
will be used by the State or Indian Tribe to 
award grants to eligible entities;
(ii) be adopted after notice and a public 
hearing; and
(iii) describe the proposed funding 
distributions and recipients of the grants to 
be provided by the State or Indian Tribe.
(3) Distribution of funds.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall provide grants 
to States and Indian Tribes under this subsection based 
on a formula determined by the Secretary, in accordance 
with subparagraph (B).
(B) Requirement.--The formula referred to in 
subparagraph (A) shall be based on the following 
factors:
(i) The total population of the State or 
Indian Tribe.
(ii)(I) The total area of the State or the 
land of the Indian Tribe; or
(II) the areas in the State or on 
the land of the Indian Tribe with a low 
ratio of electricity customers per 
mileage of power lines.
(iii) The Wildfire Risk Index score and 
rating as calculated by the Federal Emergency 
Management Agency.
(iv) The probability of wildfires in the 
State or on the land of the Indian Tribe during 
the previous 10 years, as determined based on 
the number of federally declared disasters or 
emergencies related to wildfires in the State 
or on the land of the Indian Tribe, as 
applicable, including--
(I) disasters for which Fire 
Management Assistance Grants are 
provided under section 420 of the 
Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and 
Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 
5187);
(II) major disasters declared by 
the President under section 401 of that 
Act (42 U.S.C. 5170);
(III) emergencies declared by the 
President under section 501 of that Act 
(42 U.S.C. 5191); and
(IV) any other federally declared 
disaster or emergency in the State or 
on the land of the Indian Tribe.
(v) The number and severity, measured by 
population and economic impacts, of wildfires 
experienced by the State or Indian Tribe on or 
after January 1, 2015.
(vi) The total amount, on a per capita 
basis, of public and private expenditures 
during the previous 10 years to carry out 
mitigation efforts to reduce the likelihood and 
consequences of wildfires in the State or on 
the land of the Indian Tribe, with States or 
Indian Tribes with higher per capita 
expenditures receiving additional weight or 
consideration as compared to States or Indian 
Tribes with lower per capita expenditures.
(C) Annual update of data used in distribution of 
funds.--Beginning 1 year after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary shall annually update--
(i) all data relating to the factors 
described in subparagraph (B); and
(ii) all other data used in distributing 
grants to States and Indian Tribes under this 
subsection.
(4) Oversight.--The Secretary shall ensure that each grant 
provided to a State or Indian Tribe under the program is 
allocated, pursuant to the applicable plan of the State or 
Indian Tribe, to eligible entities for projects within the 
State or on the land of the Indian Tribe.
(5) Priority.--In making grants to eligible entities using 
funds made available to the applicable State or Indian Tribe 
under the program, the State or Indian Tribe shall give 
priority to projects that, in the determination of the State or 
Indian Tribe, will generate the greatest community benefit 
(whether rural or urban) in reducing the likelihood and 
consequences of wildfires.
(6) Small utilities set aside.--A State or Indian Tribe 
receiving a grant under the program shall ensure that, of the 
amounts made available to eligible entities from funds made 
available to the State or Indian Tribe under the program, the 
percentage made available to eligible entities that sell not 
more than 4,000,000 megawatt hours of electricity per year is 
not less than the percentage of all customers in the State or 
Indian Tribe that are served by those eligible entities.
(7) Technical assistance and administrative expenses.--Of 
the amounts made available to a State or Indian Tribe under the 
program each fiscal year, the State or Indian Tribe may use not 
more than 5 percent for--
(A) providing technical assistance under subsection 
(g)(1)(A); and
(B) administrative expenses associated with the 
program.
(8) Matching requirement.--Each State and Indian Tribe 
shall be required to match 15 percent of the amount of each 
grant provided to the State or Indian Tribe under the program.
(e) Use of Grants.--
(1) In general.--A grant awarded to an eligible entity 
under the program may be used for activities, technologies, 
equipment, and hardening measures to reduce the likelihood and 
consequences of wildfires, including--
(A) weatherization technologies and equipment;
(B) fire-resistant technologies and fire prevention 
systems;
(C) monitoring and control technologies, including 
digital tools;
(D) the undergrounding of electrical equipment;
(E) utility pole management;
(F) the relocation of power lines or the 
reconductoring of power lines with low-sag, advanced 
conductors;
(G) vegetation and fuel-load management;
(H) the use or construction of distributed energy 
resources for enhancing system adaptive capacity during 
wildfires, including--
(i) microgrids; and
(ii) battery-storage subcomponents;
(I) adaptive protection technologies;
(J) advanced modeling technologies;
(K) hardening of power lines, facilities, 
substations, of other systems;
(L) the replacement of old overhead conductors and 
underground cables; and
(M) the removal or replacement of old power lines.
(2) Prohibitions and limitations.--
(A) In general.--A grant awarded to an eligible 
entity under the program may not be used for--
(i) construction of a new--
(I) electric generating facility; 
or
(II) large-scale battery-storage 
facility that is not used for enhancing 
system adaptive capacity during 
wildfires; or
(ii) cybersecurity.
(B) Certain investments eligible for recovery.--
(i) In general.--An eligible entity may not 
seek cost recovery for the portion of the cost 
of any system, technology, or equipment that is 
funded through a grant awarded under the 
program.
(ii) Savings provision.--Nothing in this 
subparagraph prohibits an eligible entity from 
recovering through traditional or incentive-
based ratemaking any portion of an investment 
in a system, technology, or equipment that is 
not funded by a grant awarded under the 
program.
(C) Application limitations.--An eligible entity 
may not submit an application for a grant provided by 
the Secretary under subsection (c) and a grant provided 
by a State or Indian Tribe pursuant to subsection (d) 
during the same application cycle.
(f) Distribution of Funding.--Of the amounts made available to 
carry out the program for a fiscal year, the Secretary shall ensure 
that--
(1) 50 percent is used to award grants to eligible entities 
under subsection (c); and
(2) 50 percent is used to make grants to States and Indian 
Tribes under subsection (d).
(g) Technical and Other Assistance.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary, States, and Indian Tribes 
may--
(A) provide technical assistance and facilitate the 
distribution and sharing of information to reduce the 
likelihood and consequences of wildfires; and
(B) promulgate consumer-facing information and 
resources to inform the public of best practices and 
resources relating to reducing the likelihood and 
consequences of wildfires.
(2) Use of funds by the secretary.--Of the amounts made 
available to the Secretary to carry out the program each fiscal 
year, the Secretary may use not more than 5 percent for--
(A) providing technical assistance under paragraph 
(1)(A); and
(B) administrative expenses associated with the 
program.
(h) Matching Requirement.--
(1) In general.--Except as provided in paragraph (2), an 
eligible entity that receives a grant under this section shall 
be required to match 100 percent of the amount of the grant.
(2) Exception for small utilities.--An eligible entity that 
sells not more than 4,000,000 megawatt hours of electricity per 
year shall be required to match \1/3\ of the amount of the 
grant.
(i) Biennial Report to Congress.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, and every 2 years thereafter through, 
the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on Energy and 
Natural Resources of the Senate and the Committee on Energy and 
Commerce of the House of Representatives a report describing 
the program.
(2) Requirements.--The report under paragraph (1) shall 
include information and data on--
(A) the costs of the projects for which grants are 
awarded to eligible entities;
(B) the types of activities, technologies, 
equipment, and hardening measures funded by those 
grants; and
(C) the extent to which the ability of the power 
grid to withstand and reduce the likelihood of 
wildfires has increased.
(j) Authorization of Appropriations.--There is authorized to be 
appropriated to the Secretary to carry out the program $3,000,000,000 
for the period of fiscal years 2026 through 2030.
(k) Continued Activities.--The Secretary shall carry out the 
program, in addition to any activities authorized under Section 40103 
of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (Public Law 117-58).
(l) Davis-Bacon.--All laborers and mechanics employed by 
contractors or subcontractors in the performance of construction, 
alteration, or repair work on a project assisted in whole or in part by 
funds made available under this section (or any amendment made by this 
section) shall be paid wages at rates not less than those prevailing on 
similar projects in the locality as determined by the Secretary of 
Labor in accordance with subchapter IV of chapter 31 of title 40, 
United States Code (commonly referred to as the ``Davis-Bacon Act''), 
and the regulations issued thereunder at 29 CFR Part 5 (Davis-Bacon and 
Related Acts regulations). Compliance with these labor standards shall 
be a condition of receiving assistance under this section, and the 
Secretary concerned shall require that all contracts and subcontracts 
include the labor standards clauses prescribed by the Secretary of 
Labor.

Subtitle C--Transmission Governance Reform

SEC. 421. FERC STAFFING.

(a) Ensuring Timely Review of Infrastructure.--Section 401(k) of 
the Department of Energy Organization Act (42 U.S.C. 7171(k)) is 
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``subchapter III of'';
(2) in paragraph (2)--
(A) by striking subparagraph (A); and
(B) by redesignating subparagraphs (B) through (E) 
as subparagraphs (A) through (D), respectively; and
(3) in paragraph (6)--
(A) by striking ``The Chairman'' and inserting the 
following:
``(A) In general.--The Chairman''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(B) Implementation plan.--Not later than 90 days 
after the date of enactment of this subparagraph, the 
Chairman shall submit to the Director of the Office of 
Personnel Management a plan to implement this 
subsection. The Director of the Office of Personnel 
Management shall take final action on the plan not 
later than 120 days after the submission of such 
plan.''.
(b) Direct Hire Authority.--Section 401 of the Department of Energy 
Organization Act (42 U.S.C. 7171) is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
``(l) Direct Hire Authority.--
``(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 3304 of title 5, 
United States Code, and without regard to the provisions of 
sections 3309 through 3318 of such title 5, if the Chairman of 
the Commission issues a certification that there is as severe 
shortage of candidates or a critical hiring need for covered 
positions to carry out the Commission's responsibilities and 
activities, the Chairman may, subject to paragraph (3), recruit 
and directly appoint highly qualified individuals into the 
competitive service.
``(2) Limitation.--Any action authorized pursuant to 
paragraph (1) shall be consistent with the merit principles of 
section 2301 of title 5, United States Code, and the Commission 
shall comply with the public notice requirements of section 
3327 of such title 5.
``(3) Termination.--
``(A) In general.--A certification issued or 
renewed under this subsection shall terminate on the 
earlier of--
``(i) the date that is 5 years after the 
certification is issued or renewed; or
``(ii) the date on which the Chairman 
determines that there is no longer a severe 
shortage of candidates or a critical hiring 
need for covered positions to carry out the 
Commission's responsibilities and activities.
``(B) Renewal.--The Chairman may renew a 
certification issued or renewed under this subsection 
for an additional 5-year period if the Chairman 
determines there is still a severe shortage of 
candidates or a critical hiring need for covered 
positions to carry out the Commission's 
responsibilities and activities.
``(4) Covered position.--In this subsection, the term 
`covered position' means a position in which an employee is 
responsible for conducting work of a scientific, technical, 
engineering, mathematical, legal, or otherwise highly 
specialized or skilled nature.''.
(c) Elimination of Reporting Sunset.--Section 11004(b) of the 
Energy Act of 2020 (42 U.S.C. 7171 note; Public Law 116-260) is 
amended--
(1) in paragraph (1), by striking ``thereafter for 10 
years'' and inserting ``thereafter''; and
(2) in paragraph (2)(B), by striking ``or mathematical'' 
and inserting ``mathematical, or otherwise highly specialized 
or skilled''.

SEC. 422. FERC FEE ASSESSMENTS.

Section 3401 of the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act of 1986 (42 
U.S.C. 7178) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(h) Review.--Not less often than once every 5 years, the 
Commission shall undertake a review to determine if the fees and 
charges it assesses under this section and other laws are sufficient to 
allow the Commission to handle its workload in an expedient manner.''.

SEC. 423. STATE PUBLIC UTILITY COMMISSION CAPACITY GRANTS.

(a) Establishment.--Not later than 2 years following the enactment 
of this title, the Secretary of Energy shall establish a program under 
which the Secretary shall award grants to State regulatory authorities 
to increase the capacity of said authorities to evaluate filings made 
by utilities related to transmission and integrated resource plans, 
including through the hiring of economic modelers, engineers, and 
others with relevant expertise.
(b) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be 
appropriated to the Secretary of Energy such sums as may be necessary 
to carry out this section.

SEC. 424. INDEPENDENT TRANSMISSION MONITORS.

(a) In General.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Commission shall--
(1) require each transmission planning region to establish 
an independent entity to monitor the planning for, and 
operation of, transmission facilities in the transmission 
planning region; or
(2) establish an independent entity to monitor the planning 
for, and operation of, transmission facilities in all 
transmission planning regions.
(b) Role of Transmission Monitor.--An independent entity described 
in subsection (a) shall provide independent analysis of transmission 
planning and ratemaking processes by the Commission and Transmission 
Organizations to inform Commission proceedings, including by, as 
applicable--
(1) reviewing the operation and practices of transmission 
facilities in the applicable transmission planning region for 
inefficiency;
(2) investigating whether any rate, charge, or 
classification for transmission facilities in the applicable 
transmission planning region, or any rule, regulation, 
practice, or contract affecting such a rate, charge, or 
classification, is unjust, unreasonable, unduly discriminatory 
or preferential;
(3) reviewing the transmission planning process for the 
applicable transmission planning region, including processes 
for planning new and upgraded local transmission projects;
(4) reviewing transmission facility costs in the applicable 
transmission planning region;
(5) providing examples and advice to Transmission 
Organizations in the applicable transmission planning region on 
regional transmission operations, planning, and cost-allocation 
processes;
(6) identifying situations in which it is cost-effective or 
otherwise appropriate to construct or deploy advanced 
transmission technologies, demand-side energy efficiency 
measures, demand response, and distributed energy resources, 
including rooftop and community solar, microgrids, and storage;
(7) coordinating and sharing information with State 
regulatory authorities in the applicable transmission planning 
region; and
(8) identifying reliable data sets and methodologies for 
use in regional planning and providing access to data to 
stakeholders.
(c) Savings Clause.--Nothing in this section shall be construed to 
alter the sole power of the Commission to, under sections 205 and 206 
of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824d; 824e), determine if any 
rates, charges, or classifications are unjust, unreasonable, or unduly 
discriminatory or preferential.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission.
(2) Advanced transmission technology; state regulatory 
authority; transmission organization; transmission planning 
region.--The terms ``advanced transmission technology'', 
``State regulatory authority'', ``Transmission Organization'', 
and ``transmission planning region'' have the meanings given 
such terms in section 3 of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 
796).

SEC. 425. AGGREGATOR BIDDING INTO ORGANIZED WHOLESALE ELECTRIC MARKETS.

(a) In General.--Notwithstanding any prohibition established by a 
relevant electric retail regulatory authority with respect to who may 
bid into an organized wholesale electric market, each Transmission 
Organization shall, with respect to the organized wholesale electric 
market controlled by the Transmission Organization, allow any bid from 
an aggregator of retail customers that aggregates the demand 
flexibility of the customers of utilities that distributed more than 4 
million megawatt-hours in the previous fiscal year. Such flexibility 
may be achieved through demand response, distributed generation, 
distributed storage, and community-based or municipal aggregation 
programs.
(b) Rulemaking.--Not later than 12 months after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Commission shall promulgate a final rule 
pursuant to subsection (a).
(c) Standard Procedures.--Each Transmission Organization shall 
establish standardized registration, telemetry, and settlement 
procedures for aggregators of distributed energy resources to ensure 
non-discriminatory participation and data access.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission.
(2) Electric retail regulatory authority.--The term 
``electric retail regulatory authority'' means an entity that 
establishes retail electricity prices and retail competition 
policies for customers.
(3) Transmission organization.--The term ``Transmission 
Organization'' has the meaning given such term in section 3 of 
the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 796).

SEC. 426. RTO AND ISO GOVERNANCE AND PARTICIPATION.

(a) Technical Conference.--Not later than 120 days after the date 
of enactment of this section, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 
shall convene a technical conference to consider Regional Transmission 
Organization and Independent System Operator independence from their 
members interests, the responsiveness of RTOs and ISOs to consumers and 
other stakeholders, and ways for RTOs and ISOs to increase the 
equitable treatment of consumers and other stakeholders, including the 
effectiveness of stakeholder policies and procedures adopted in 
compliance with the final rule entitled ``Wholesale Competition in 
Regions With Organized Electric Markets'' published in the Federal 
Register on October 28, 2008 (73 Fed. Reg. 64100).
(b) Participation.--The technical conference convened under 
subsection (a) shall be led by members of the Commission, and the 
Commission shall invite participation from representatives of each RTO 
and ISO, owners and operators of transmission facilities, 
representatives of entities that develop advanced transmission 
technologies, owners and operators of electric generation facilities 
that interconnect at either the transmission or distribution system 
level, including energy storage, end-use customers, electric power 
marketers, publicly owned electric utilities, consumer advocates, 
environmental justice advocates, environmental groups, State public 
utility commissions, State governors, and such other stakeholders as 
the Commission determines appropriate.
(c) Topics.--In conducting the technical conference convened under 
subsection (a), the Commission shall seek to identify policies and 
procedures that maintain RTO and ISO independence, and enhance the 
responsiveness of RTOs and ISOs to their customers and other 
stakeholders, taking into consideration--
(1) the benefits of greater transparency in RTO and ISO 
stakeholder processes, including access by stakeholders to 
relevant data and written background materials;
(2) barriers to participation in such stakeholder processes 
for new market participants and other non-incumbent 
stakeholders;
(3) the need for periodic, independent review of RTO and 
ISO stakeholder policies and procedures;
(4) power imbalances between incumbent and non-incumbent 
stakeholders, including whether current RTO and ISO membership 
rules, sectoral designations, and voting procedures allow for 
adequate representation of all stakeholder views;
(5) how RTOs and ISOs should take State public policy 
objectives into consideration as part of such stakeholder 
processes;
(6) whether existing RTO and ISO decision-making processes 
are sufficiently independent from the control of any market 
participant or class of participants;
(7) the role of the Office of Public Participation of the 
Commission in facilitating greater stakeholder participation in 
RTOs and ISOs; and
(8) such other subjects as the Commission considers 
appropriate.
(d) Public Comment.--The Commission shall provide an opportunity 
for public comment on the technical conference convened under 
subsection (a).
(e) Rulemaking.--Not later than 18 months after the conclusion of 
the technical conference convened under subsection (a), and after 
public notice and comment, the Commission shall promulgate a final rule 
adopting such policies and procedures as the Commission determines 
necessary to maintain the independence of RTOs and ISOs, and to enhance 
the transparency and responsiveness of RTOs and ISOs to their customers 
and other stakeholders.
(f) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission.
(2) Federal power act definitions.--The terms ``electric 
utility'', ``Independent System Operator'', ``ISO'', ``Regional 
Transmission Organization'', ``RTO'', and ``State commission'' 
have the meanings given such terms in section 3 of the Federal 
Power Act (16 U.S.C. 796).

SEC. 427. MODERNIZED GRID DATA AND ANALYTICS.

(a) Modernization of Reporting Information and Data Under the 
Federal Power Act.--
(1) In general.--The Commission shall, by rule, standardize 
the manner in which information and data is reported by 
transmitting utilities and Transmission Organizations to the 
Commission under the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 972 et seq.) 
in accordance with this subsection.
(2) Content of reports requirements.--In carrying out 
paragraph (1), the Commission shall require the information and 
data that will be reported, as it applies to projects, existing 
assets, or systems owned or operated by a transmitting utility 
or Transmission Organization, to include the following:
(A) Information and data relating to a project and 
the lifecycle of such project, including--
(i) project milestones, including proposed, 
approved, and actual in-service dates;
(ii) project classification information, 
including whether the project represents new 
construction, an upgrade, or a rebuild of 
existing infrastructure;
(iii) major development history, including 
original construction and last major upgrade 
dates;
(iv) the location of any applicable 
project;
(v) the project nameplate capacity, length, 
voltage, and conductor material and 
specifications; and
(vi) an identification of the applicable 
planning process through which the applicable 
project originated.
(B) The costs and economic justifications of a 
project, existing asset, or system owned or operated by 
a transmitting utility or Transmission Organization, as 
applicable, including--
(i) original projected and actual final 
costs of all new projects;
(ii) original projected and actual final 
costs of renewals and replacements of project 
works;
(iii) original projected and actual 
maintenance and operations expenses of the 
projects and existing assets on a current-year 
and five-year rolling average basis;
(iv) cost allocation shares where 
applicable, including identification of 
entities responsible for shared investments in 
projects;
(v) cost-benefit analyses of projects;
(vi) whether the project was subject to a 
competitive solicitation process and, if 
applicable, the outcome of that process; and
(vii) classification of the project based 
on benefits provided, under the relevant 
transmission planning framework.
(C) The capital structure and the rate of return of 
a project, existing asset, or system owned or operated 
by a transmitting utility or Transmission Organization, 
including--
(i) the allowed return on equity (ROE), 
return on debt, and return on preferred stock;
(ii) the utility's authorized or actual 
capital structure, including the percentage of 
debt, equity, and preferred stock used in 
ratemaking;
(iii) the resulting overall weighted 
average rate of return;
(iv) any FERC-approved incentive adders 
applied to the base ROE, including rationale 
and duration; and
(v) where applicable, information necessary 
to assess potential double leveraging effects 
arising from a holding company structure, as 
defined by the Commission.
(D) For information and data relating to a system 
owned or operated by a transmitting utility or 
Transmission Organization, as applicable, congestion-
related costs or the costs incurred by ratepayers, 
power supplies, or distribution customers as a result 
of transmission system constraints that prevent the 
dispatch of least-cost generation resources.
(E) Technical and non-technical losses and 
inefficiencies.
(F) A complete accounting of interconnection-
related costs incurred by interconnection customers, 
transmitting utilities, or other entities, 
disaggregated by cost type and responsible party, 
including--
(i) study fees;
(ii) milestones or reservation payments;
(iii) costs of local interconnection 
attachment facilities;
(iv) grid network upgrade costs; and
(v) estimates of costs to a larger system.
(G) The projected and actual capacity and load of a 
system owned or operated by a transmitting utility or 
Transmission Organization and the projected and actual 
amount of energy delivered by such system.
(H) Information and data on the use of capital-
efficient advanced technologies, including information 
on--
(i) hourly usage;
(ii) the location of the technologies; and
(iii) the types of technologies deployed.
(I) Any additional metrics the Commission 
determines necessary to improve ratepayer affordability 
and understanding of the transmission sector.
(3) Content of interconnection reports.--In carrying out 
paragraph (1), the Commission shall require a transmitting 
utility or Transmission Organization to report, no less than 
quarterly, to the Commission information and data on 
interconnection queues and details relating to interconnection 
study models used. Data reported under this paragraph shall 
include both historical and real time information to allow 
trend analysis and retrospective validation of study timelines.
(4) Format of reports.--
(A) In general.--Pursuant to paragraph (1), the 
Commission shall ensure the completeness, accuracy, and 
accessibility of information and data reported to the 
Commission under the Federal Power Act, as the 
Commission determines necessary, by--
(i) establishing standardized reporting 
requirements that specify standards for 
describing and recording such information and 
data, and, if the Commission determines 
appropriate, providing templates or other tools 
to reduce administrative burden;
(ii) providing a format for such 
information and data to be submitted in a 
manner that is fully searchable and machine-
readable;
(iii) requiring any form filed by a 
transmitting utility or a Transmission 
Organization contains no blank cells, unless 
clearly marked as exempt pursuant to 
subparagraph (B);
(iv) requiring any projections required 
under paragraph (1) are defined, including key 
assumptions, methodologies, and any other 
information that could influence the result of 
the projection; and
(v) requiring data reported under this 
subsection is also made available to the public 
through a single, user-friendly web interface 
that allows users to search, filter, and 
download the data in a machine-readable format.
(B) Exemption.--A transmitting utility or a 
Transmission Organization may request an exemption from 
a requirement under subparagraph (A)(iii) if--
(i) such transmitting utility or 
Transmission Organization submits to the 
Commission a written statement explaining why 
such an exemption is needed; and
(ii) the Commission determines that the 
exemption is justified based on the written 
statement submitted under clause (i).
(5) FERC form no 1.--
(A) Refiling.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
on which the Commission issues a rule under paragraph 
(1), with respect to a covered form, in the event the 
Commission determines that such covered form is 
incomplete, the Commission shall require the relevant 
transmitting utility or Transmission Organization to 
file a revised FERC Form No. 1 in a manner that 
complies with the requirements of paragraph (4) and the 
requirements under section 141.1 of title 18, Code of 
Federal Regulations (or any successor regulations).
(B) Covered form defined.--In this subsection, the 
term ``covered form'' means a FERC Form No. 1 filed 
with the Commission by a transmitting utility or 
Transmission Organization during the 5-year period 
immediately preceding the date of enactment of this 
Act.
(C) Modernization and centralization of ferc form 
no. 1.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Commission, in collaboration 
with the Administrator, shall make all historical and 
future FERC Form No. 1 filings publicly available 
through the centralized data repository established 
under subsection (b).
(b) Development of Centralized Data Repository.--
(1) In general.--The Commission, in collaboration with the 
Administrator, shall develop and maintain a searchable and 
publicly accessible data repository containing information and 
data the Commission determines necessary to carry out the 
requirements of this Act, including information and data 
reported or filed by a transmitting utility or Transmission 
Organization--
(A) in FERC Form Nos. 1, 1-F, 3-Q, 714, 715, and 
730, including information or data from these forms 
reported prior to the date of enactment of this Act; 
and
(B) pursuant to the requirements of this Act.
(2) EIA expertise.--In collaborating with the Commission 
under this subsection with respect to the data repository 
developed under paragraph (1), the Administrator shall--
(A) develop and maintain schemas and metadata for 
Form No. 1 data consistent with section 3506(b)(6) of 
title 44, United States Code;
(B) provide user-friendly tools to explore, 
download, and analyze such data, including filtering by 
utility, year, region, and data category; and
(C) ensure such data is accessible to the public in 
both bulk and disaggregated forms, with Application 
Programming Interfaces and visualization tools where 
feasible.
(3) Requirements.--The Commissioner shall ensure that the 
data repository developed and maintained under paragraph (1)--
(A) includes the data in fully searchable and 
machine-readable format;
(B) is capable of including high-quality data 
through schemas and accompanying metadata;
(C) ensures consistent identification of data 
elements or assets that satisfy regulatory requirements 
for data, established by the Commission, as reflected 
in machine-readable metadata;
(D) uses standardized data formats across all 
Transmission Organizations and transmitting utilities;
(E) is used by Transmission Organizations and 
transmitting utilities to file reports required under 
the Federal Power Act and this Act;
(F) enables uploading of reports filed under the 
Federal Power Act or this Act;
(G) is optimized for operability by Transmission 
Organizations and transmitting utilities to limit the 
administrative burden of, and ensure consistency in, 
such filings;
(H) includes interactive tools and visualization 
interfaces to allow users to explore trends in 
transmission buildout, interconnection timelines, and 
associated ratepayer costs;
(I) incorporates Application Programming Interfaces 
or bulk download functionality to support third-party 
analysis and research; and
(J) ensures that publicly accessible data is 
aligned with the security of guidelines for Critical 
Energy/Electric Infrastructure Information, and 
includes appropriate data anonymization and 
cybersecurity protections, based on Commission 
guidance.
(c) Grid Research and Analytics.--
(1) Research and policy analysis.--The Secretary, in 
collaboration with the Commission, using standardized 
methodologies and anonymized queue data collected under this 
Act, shall conduct research and publish periodic reports on the 
following topics:
(A) Primary drivers of increased costs to 
ratepayers associated with transmission and 
interconnection, including--
(i) transmission capital expenditures;
(ii) interconnection-related upgrade costs;
(iii) interconnection study delays;
(iv) regional variations in cost allocation 
methodologies; and
(v) cost recovery practices by utilities 
and grid operators.
(B) Value delivered to ratepayers from transmission 
and interconnection investments, including through--
(i) improvements to electric system 
reliability;
(ii) avoided emissions or emissions 
reductions; and
(iii) enhancements to long-term system 
resilience and grid flexibility.
(C) Mechanisms to enhance ratepayer affordability, 
including--
(i) evaluation of performance-based 
regulation frameworks applied to transmission 
and interconnection-related investments;
(ii) assessment of alternative 
interconnection solutions such as advanced 
transmission technologies, shared 
infrastructure models, or consolidated 
upgrades; and
(iii) evaluation of demand-side 
interventions that reduce the need for costly 
transmission or interconnection investments.
(D) Comparative scenario modeling of potential 
energy futures, to--
(i) identify lowest-cost pathways to 
national grid expansion;
(ii) assess trade-offs among investment 
strategies; and
(iii) inform decision-making by utilities, 
regional planning entities, and Federal 
agencies.
(E) Systemic cost impacts from interconnection 
inefficiencies, including analysis of how study delays, 
queue withdrawals, and increased construction periods 
contribute to higher system costs for ratepayers or 
generators.
(F) Opportunities to increase system efficiency and 
unlock latent capacity through improved operational 
practices and deployment of advanced technologies, 
including--
(i) assessment of unused or underutilized 
grid capacity due to outdated planning 
assumptions or lack of dynamic optimization;
(ii) evaluation of technologies such as 
dynamic line ratings, topology optimization, 
flexible interconnection, or flow control 
devices; and
(iii) quantification of benefits to 
ratepayers and system operators from unlocking 
this capacity relative to traditional capital-
intensive buildout.
(2) Interconnection transparency and dashboard.--
(A) In general.--The Secretary shall, through 1 or 
more National Laboratories, develop, maintain, and 
continuously improve an Interconnection Data Dashboard 
that presents real-time and historical information 
relevant to interconnection of generators, loads, and 
other utilities or transmission systems.
(B) Purpose.--The Dashboard shall provide public 
stakeholders, regulators, utilities, developers, and 
researchers with transparent, up-to-date insights into 
the effectiveness, efficiency, affordability, and 
reliability of interconnection processes across all 
transmission planning regions.
(C) Data sources.--The Dashboard shall incorporate 
data collected under subsection (b) of this Act and 
from FERC Form No. 1 filings, relevant Commission 
filings, publicly available interconnection queue data, 
and additional datasets, as determined appropriate by 
the Secretary or the Commission.
(D) Capabilities.--The Secretary shall develop the 
Dashboard to be able to--
(i) present anonymized interconnection 
queue data, including application volumes, 
withdrawal rates, project timelines, and 
milestones;
(ii) provide visualization of average and 
median interconnection study durations, 
disaggregated by region and project type;
(iii) show aggregated system upgrade costs, 
study backlogs, and queue performance metrics;
(iv) allow filtering by geographic location 
(e.g., State, balancing authority, latitude/
longitude coordinate), utility, fuel type, and 
project size;
(v) present each interconnection project's 
current development status, such as application 
submitted, study phase, approved, under 
construction, or in-service;
(vi) display physical asset characteristics 
for each interconnection project and system 
segment, including nameplate generation 
capacity, peak load served, and conductor 
capacity ratings;
(vii) identify trends in queue reform 
outcomes, including impacts on throughput, 
delay reduction, and project completion rates;
(viii) support export of underlying data in 
machine-readable formats for public analysis; 
and
(ix) perform any other function the 
Secretary determines appropriate.
(E) Reporting.--The Secretary, in collaboration 
with National Laboratories and the Commission, shall 
publish annual reports summarizing findings from the 
Dashboard, based on data collected pursuant to 
subsection (b), without substituting for the more 
comprehensive cost-driver analysis required under 
paragraph (1), including--
(i) interregional comparisons of queue 
efficiency and project success rates;
(ii) systemic drivers of delay or cost 
escalation;
(iii) estimated ratepayer impacts 
associated with interconnection bottlenecks; 
and
(iv) recommendations for improving 
interconnection transparency and system 
performance.
(F) Public access.--The Dashboard shall be made 
available on a public website and designed for use by a 
broad range of users, including through visualizations, 
downloadable datasets, and API access, while 
maintaining protections for CEII.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the 
Administrator of the Energy Information Administration of the 
Department of Energy.
(2) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission.
(3) Ferc form no. 1.--The term ``FERC Form No. 1'' means 
the Form of Annual Report for Major electric utilities, 
licensees, and others, designated as FERC Form No. 1 and 
prescribed under section 141.1 of title 18, Code of Federal 
Regulations (as in effect on the date of enactment of this 
Act).
(4) Metadata.--The term ``metadata'' has the meaning given 
such term in section 3502 of title 44, United States Code.
(5) Project.--The term ``project'' refers exclusively to 
transmission infrastructure projects planned, proposed, or 
undertaken by the transmitting utility. This includes projects 
initiated through--
(A) regional or local transmission planning 
processes;
(B) interconnection studies;
(C) reliability-driven upgrades; and
(D) other applicable pathways as determined by the 
Commission.
(6) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Energy.
(7) Transmitting utility; transmission organization.--The 
terms ``transmitting utility'', and ``Transmission 
Organization'' have the meanings given those terms in section 3 
of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 796).

TITLE V--DEPLOYING LOW-COST, CLEAN ENERGY RESPONSIBLY ON PUBLIC LANDS 
AND WATERS

Subtitle A--Public Land Renewable Energy Development

SEC. 501. PUBLIC LAND RENEWABLE ENERGY DEVELOPMENT.

(a) Definitions.--In this Act:
(1) Covered land.--The term ``covered land'' means land 
that is--
(A) Federal land;
(B) not excluded from the development of 
geothermal, solar, or wind energy under--
(i) a land use plan; or
(ii) other Federal law; and
(C) not included in an area--
(i) that is subject to the Desert Renewable 
Energy Conservation Plan developed by the 
California Energy Commission, the California 
Department of Fish and Wildlife, the Bureau of 
Land Management, and the United States Fish and 
Wildlife Service; or
(ii) for which the Secretary determines 
existing wind and solar energy land use 
planning meets or exceeds the standards 
established under section 3.
(2) Energy storage project.--The term ``energy storage 
project'' means equipment that--
(A) receives, stores, and delivers energy-using 
batteries, compressed air, pumped hydropower, hydrogen 
storage (including hydrolysis), thermal energy storage, 
regenerative fuel cells, flywheels, capacitors, 
superconducting magnets, or other technologies 
identified by the Secretary of Energy; and
(B) has a storage capacity of not less than 5 
kilowatt hours.
(3) Exclusion area.--The term ``exclusion area'' means 
covered land that is identified by the Bureau of Land 
Management as not suitable for development of renewable energy 
projects.
(4) Federal land.--The term ``Federal land'' means--
(A) public land; and
(B) National Forest System lands administered by 
the Department of Agriculture through the Forest 
Service where the Secretary has authority to issue 
leases for the development and utilization of 
geothermal resources under section 3 and section 15 of 
the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 (30 U.S.C. 1002, 
1014).
(5) Fund.--The term ``Fund'' means the Renewable Energy 
Resource Conservation Fund established by section 6(c)(1).
(6) Land use plan.--The term ``land use plan'' means--
(A) with respect to public land, a land use plan 
established under the Federal Land Policy and 
Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.); and
(B) with respect to National Forest System land, a 
land management plan approved, amended, or revised 
under section 6 of the Forest and Rangeland Renewable 
Resources Planning Act of 1974 (16 U.S.C. 1604).
(7) National forest system.--The term ``National Forest 
System'' has the meaning given the term in section 11(a) of the 
Forest and Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 
(16 U.S.C. 1609(a)).
(8) Priority area.--The term ``priority area'' means 
covered land identified by the land use planning process of the 
Bureau of Land Management as being a preferred location for a 
renewable energy project, including an area that is identified 
as a designated leasing area under the rule of the Bureau of 
Land Management entitled ``Competitive Processes, Terms, and 
Conditions for Leasing Public Lands for Solar and Wind Energy 
Development and Technical Changes and Corrections'' (81 Fed. 
Reg. 92122 (December 19, 2016)) (or a successor regulation).
(9) Public land.--The term ``public land'' has the meaning 
given the term ``public lands'' in section 103 of the Federal 
Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1702).
(10) Renewable energy project.--The term ``renewable energy 
project''--
(A) means a project carried out on covered land 
that--
(i) uses wind, solar, or geothermal energy 
to generate energy; or
(ii) transmits electricity to support wind, 
solar, or geothermal energy generation; and
(B) may include an associated energy storage 
project.
(11) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of the Interior.
(b) Updating National Goals for Renewable Energy Production on 
Federal Land.--Section 3104 of the Energy Act of 2020 (43 U.S.C. 3004) 
is amended--
(1) in subsection (b)--
(A) by striking ``seek to'';
(B) by striking ``25'' and inserting ``60''; and
(C) by striking ``2025'' and inserting ``December 
31, 2035''; and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(c) Update.--Not later than 18 months after the date of enactment 
of this subsection, the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary 
of Agriculture and the heads of other relevant Federal agencies, shall 
update the national goals for renewable energy production on Federal 
land established under subsection (a).''.
(c) Land Use Planning and Updates to Programmatic Environmental 
Impact Statements.--
(1) Priority areas.--
(A) Establishment of priority areas; designation of 
areas eligible for the submission of renewable energy 
project applications.--
(i) In general.--For purposes of renewable 
energy planning, the Secretary, consistent with 
the requirements described in clause (ii), 
shall--
(I) update completed land use plans 
that, with respect to covered lands, 
have designated areas as eligible for 
the submission of renewable energy 
project applications; and
(II) establish priority areas on 
covered land for renewable energy 
projects.
(ii) Requirements.--In carrying out 
activities under clauses (i) and (ii) of 
subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall--
(I) after an opportunity for public 
comment, review the adequacy of public 
lands for renewable energy projects for 
the purposes of--
(aa) encouraging and 
facilitating new renewable 
energy projects; and
(bb) ensuring consistency 
with a mitigation sequence of 
avoiding, minimizing, and 
compensating for adverse 
impacts to other public uses 
and values of covered land, 
including--

(AA) wildlife 
habitat;

(BB) species listed 
as threatened or 
endangered under the 
Endangered Species Act 
of 1973 (16 U.S.C. 1531 
et seq.);

(CC) water 
resources;

(DD) cultural 
resources;

(EE) recreational 
uses;

(FF) land with 
wilderness 
characteristics;

(GG) land with 
special management 
designations; and

(HH) areas of 
Tribal importance; and

(II) comply with--
(aa) the principles of 
multiple use (as defined in 
section 103 of the Federal Land 
Policy and Management Act of 
1976 (43 U.S.C. 1702)); and
(bb) the national goals for 
renewable energy production 
established under section 3104 
of the Energy Act of 2020 (43 
U.S.C. 3004), including the 
minimum production goal 
described in subsection (b) of 
that section.
(B) Priority for certain applications.--In 
considering applications for renewable energy projects 
on covered land, with respect to an application for a 
proposed renewable energy project on covered land that 
is to be carried out in a priority area, the Secretary 
shall--
(i) prioritize the application to be 
carried out in any identified priority area; 
and
(ii) on approval of the application, 
provide to the applicant who submitted the 
application the opportunity to participate in 
any regional mitigation plan developed for the 
applicable priority area.
(C) Programmatic planning.--
(i) Solar energy.--As soon as practicable, 
but not later than 18 months after the Record 
of Decision entitled ``Approved Record of 
Decision and Amendments/Record of Decision for 
Utility-Scale Solar Energy Development'' dated 
December 2024 was issued, the Secretary shall 
consider establishing priority areas on covered 
land for Solar energy projects in the planning 
area (as defined in the Record of Decision).
(ii) Wind energy.--As soon as practicable, 
but not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall 
initiate a review of the final programmatic 
Environment Impact Statement referenced in the 
notice of availability entitled ``Notice of 
Availability of the Final Programmatic 
Environmental Impact Statement on Wind Energy 
Development on BLM-Administered Lands in the 
Western United States, Including Proposed 
Amendments to Selected Land Use Plans'' (70 
Fed. Reg. 36651 (June 24, 2005)), that 
considers establishment of wind application and 
priority areas on covered lands, and complete 
that review within 3 years of issuing a notice 
of intent.
(iii) Geothermal energy.--As soon as 
practicable, the Secretary shall initiate and 
complete a review or update of existing 
programmatic analyses for geothermal energy 
development on covered lands, identifying areas 
suitable for leasing and development, and 
aligning such analyses with current land use 
plans and transmission planning efforts.
(iv) Electric transmission.--As soon as 
practicable, the Secretary shall initiate and 
complete a programmatic analysis for electric 
transmission development on covered lands, 
identifying priority and corridor areas that 
support renewable energy buildout and grid 
reliability, and coordinating with regional 
transmission planning processes and existing 
right-of-way designations.
(2) Review and modification.--
(A) In general.--Subject to paragraph (2), not less 
frequently than once every 10 years, the Secretary 
shall--
(i) after an opportunity for public 
comment, review the adequacy of all land 
allocations for renewable energy projects under 
the requirements in clause (ii) of subparagraph 
(A); and
(ii) based on the review carried out under 
subparagraph (A), add, modify, or eliminate 
priority areas, exclusion areas, and areas on 
covered land open or closed to solar or wind 
energy right-of-way applications or to 
geothermal leasing.
(B) Limitation.--Paragraph (1) shall not apply to 
any covered land that the Secretary determines, after 
seeking public input, is subject to an existing land 
use plan that meets the purposes described in paragraph 
(1)(A).
(C) Report.--If the Secretary determines, in an 
annual report required under subsection (g) of section 
3102 of the Energy Act of 2020 (43 U.S.C. 3002) (as 
redesignated by subsection (d)(1)(A)), that the 
national goal for renewable energy production 
established under subsection (a) of section 3104 of 
that Act (43 U.S.C. 3004), including the minimum 
production goal established under subsection (b) of 
that section, may not be met, the Secretary shall act 
more frequently than otherwise required by this 
subsection to designate areas eligible for the 
submission of renewable energy project applications and 
establish additional priority areas for renewable 
energy projects.
(3) Compliance with the national environmental policy act 
of 1969.--For purposes of this section, compliance with the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
seq.) shall be accomplished--
(A) for geothermal energy--
(i) by updating the document entitled 
``Final Programmatic Environmental Impact 
Statement for Geothermal Leasing in the Western 
United States'' and dated October 2008; and
(ii) by incorporating into the updated 
document under clause (i) any additional 
regional analyses completed by Federal agencies 
after the date on which the document described 
in that subparagraph was finalized;
(B) for solar energy--
(i) by updating the document entitled 
``Approved Record of Decision and Amendments/
Record of Decision for Utility-Scale Solar 
Energy Development'' and dated December 2024, 
10 years after the publication of the document; 
and
(ii) by incorporating into the updated 
document under clause (i) any additional 
regional analyses completed by Federal agencies 
after the date on which the document described 
in that subparagraph was finalized; and
(C) for wind energy--
(i) by updating the document entitled 
``Final Programmatic Environmental Impact 
Statement on Wind Energy Development on BLM-
Administered Lands in the Western United 
States'' and dated June 2005; and
(ii) by incorporating into the updated 
document under clause (i) any additional 
regional analyses completed by Federal agencies 
after the date on which the document described 
in that subparagraph was finalized.
(4) No effect on processing site-specific applications.--
Nothing in this section modifies any requirement to conduct 
site-specific environmental reviews or process permits for 
proposed renewable energy projects during preparation of an 
updated programmatic environmental impact statement, land use 
plan, or amendment to a land use plan.
(5) Coordination.--In developing any update required under 
this section, the Secretary shall coordinate, on an ongoing 
basis, with appropriate State, Tribal, and local governments, 
transmission infrastructure owners, operators, and developers, 
renewable energy developers, and other appropriate entities to 
ensure that priority areas established by the Secretary under 
this section take into account--
(A) economic viability (including having access to 
existing or planned transmission lines);
(B) consistency with a mitigation sequence to 
avoid, minimize, and compensate for impacts to--
(i) fish, wildlife, or plants;
(ii) fish, wildlife, or plant habitat;
(iii) recreational uses;
(iv) land with wilderness characteristics;
(v) land with special management 
designations;
(vi) cultural resources;
(vii) areas of Tribal importance; and
(viii) other uses of covered land;
(C) feasibility of siting on previously disturbed 
land, including commercial and industrial land, mine 
land, and previously contaminated sites; and
(D) consistency with section 202 of the Federal 
Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 
1712), including subsection (c)(9) of that section (43 
U.S.C. 1712(c)(9)).
(6) Transmission.--In carrying out this section, the 
Secretary shall--
(A) determine whether adequate transmission exists 
for renewable energy projects on covered land; and
(B) if a determination is made in the negative 
under subparagraph (A), in coordination with the heads 
of other relevant Federal agencies, review existing 
land use plans to determine if amendments to those land 
use plans would be appropriate to support adequate 
transmission capability.
(d) Improving Wind and Solar Energy Project Permitting.--
(1) Role of renewable energy coordination offices.--Section 
3102 of the Energy Act of 2020 (43 U.S.C. 3002) is amended--
(A) by redesignating subsections (e) and (f) as 
subsections (f) and (g), respectively; and
(B) by inserting after subsection (d) the 
following:
``(e) Processing of Wind and Solar Energy Applications.--
``(1) Delegation to state renewable energy coordination 
offices.--
``(A) In general.--Notwithstanding any other 
provision of law, the Secretary may delegate to a State 
Renewable Energy Coordination Office the authority to 
process applications for eligible projects proposed to 
be carried out on land managed by the Bureau of Land 
Management in the applicable State.
``(B) Roles and responsibilities of managers.--For 
purposes of processing applications described in 
subparagraph (A), the manager of the applicable State 
Renewable Energy Coordination Office--
``(i) shall have the authority to issue 
grants or leases for eligible projects;
``(ii) with the approval of the State 
Director of the applicable Bureau of Land 
Management State Office, may use other 
employees in field and district offices of the 
applicable Bureau of Land Management State 
Office, or hire additional experts, to assist 
with timely processing of applications, with 
the costs of hiring additional experts to be 
charged to applicants; and
``(iii) shall report to the State Director 
of the applicable Bureau of Land Management 
State Office.
``(2) Prohibition of delegation to employees of field or 
district offices.--Except as provided in paragraph (1)(B)(ii), 
the Secretary may not delegate to employees of field or 
district offices of the Bureau of Land Management the authority 
to process applications for eligible projects proposed to be 
carried out on land managed by the Bureau of Land 
Management.''.
(2) Cost recovery agreements.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 30 days after the 
date on which an applicant submits a complete 
application for a right-of-way for a wind or solar 
energy project, including submission of the filing fee 
required under section 2804.12 of title 43, Code of 
Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation), the 
Secretary shall provide a cost recovery agreement with 
respect to the application.
(B) Effect.--Issuance of a cost recovery agreement 
under subparagraph (A) and payment of cost recovery 
fees shall preclude any new claims to the use of the 
applicable covered land during any period in which the 
application is active.
(C) Conflicts; studies.--
(i) Conflicts.--To be considered complete 
under subparagraph (A), an application 
described in that paragraph shall address any 
known conflicts with respect to the use of the 
applicable covered land, as identified in 
scientific literature or other studies.
(ii) Additional studies.--Additional 
studies shall not be required for purposes of 
considering an application to be complete under 
subparagraph (A).
(3) Environmental requirements.--
(A) Notice of intent.--
(i) In general.--Not later than 180 days 
after the date on which the agency notifies the 
applicant that the application to establish a 
right-of-way is complete, or a later date to be 
established by the Secretary under clause (ii), 
if an environmental impact statement is 
determined to be necessary, the Secretary shall 
issue a notice of intent to prepare an 
environmental impact statement with respect to 
the application.
(ii) Extension.--The Secretary shall 
establish a later date by which the notice 
under clause (i) shall be issued, if the 
Secretary determines that the 180-day period 
under that paragraph should be extended due 
to--
(I) the application being 
considered a low priority under section 
2804.35 of title 43, Code of Federal 
Regulations (or a successor 
regulation);
(II) project-specific 
circumstances, including the need for 
further studies, making the 180-day 
deadline insufficient; or
(III) the application not meeting 
the requirements for approval.
(B) Categorical exclusion.--
(i) Preliminary work.--As the Secretary 
determines to be appropriate, the Secretary may 
promulgate regulations providing that 
preliminary geotechnical work and 
meteorological monitoring relating to renewable 
energy projects shall be categorically excluded 
from the requirements for an environmental 
assessment or environmental impact statement 
under section 1501.4 of title 40, Code of 
Federal Regulations (or a successor 
regulation).
(ii) Deadline.--For any energy projects 
eligible for a categorical exclusion under 
paragraph 1, the Secretary shall issue a 
decision within 90 days of the submission of a 
complete application.
(4) Processing priority.--In processing applications 
described in paragraph (2)(A), the Secretary shall--
(A) give priority to applications for renewable 
energy projects in priority areas; and
(B) process applications for renewable energy 
projects in areas that are not priority areas in the 
order in which the applications are received.
(5) Use of competitive process.--
(A) In general.--Subject to subparagraph (B), the 
Secretary shall not use a competitive process for the 
review of an application described in paragraph (2)(A), 
except--
(i) in a case in which 2 or more applicants 
file an application for the same site (or 
portions of the same site) not more than 15 
days apart; or
(ii) as otherwise established by the 
Secretary through a subsequent rulemaking 
process delineating the instances in which the 
Secretary will use the competitive process.
(B) Limitation.--Subparagraph (A) shall not apply 
to applications for competitive right-of-way leases in 
priority areas.
(e) Increasing Economic Certainty.--
(1) Rents and fees.--
(A) In general.--In determining rental rates and 
other fees for renewable energy project leases or 
right-of-way grants, the Secretary shall ensure that 
the total rental rates and other fees charged do not 
exceed the average amount charged for similar 
activities on private land in the State or county in 
which the rental rates and other fees are charged.
(B) Individual appraisals not required.--For 
purposes of determining rental rates for renewable 
energy projects, the Secretary--
(i) shall not be required to conduct 
individual appraisals; and
(ii) may use average cash rents included in 
the Pastureland Rents Survey prepared by the 
National Agricultural Statistics Service, as 
determined for the 5-year period ending on the 
date on which the rental rate is determined.
(C) Increases in base rental rates.--After a base 
rental rate is established for a lease or right-of-way 
grant authorization for a renewable energy project, any 
increase in the base rental rate shall be limited to 
the Implicit Price Deflator-Gross Product Index 
published by the Bureau of Economic Analysis of the 
Department of Commerce on the date of issuance of the 
lease or right-of way grant authorization.
(D) Capacity fees.--The Secretary may consider 
charging a capacity fee for a renewable energy project 
only if the Secretary determines that capacity fees are 
charged within the region or State in which the 
renewable energy project is carried out, as part of 
leaseholds on State or private land.
(2) Bonds.--The Secretary shall adopt a process for 
establishing bond requirements for decommissioning renewable 
energy projects that--
(A) do not establish a minimum per acre amount; and
(B) are based on the difference between--
(i) the estimated, site-specific net costs 
of reclamation of the covered land; and
(ii) the salvage value of materials 
available after decommissioning the renewable 
energy project.
(f) Disposition of Revenues; Renewable Energy Resource Conservation 
Fund.--
(1) Disposition of revenues.--
(A) Availability.--Except as provided in 
subparagraph (C), without further appropriation or 
fiscal year limitation, of amounts collected from wind 
and solar energy projects as bonus bids, rentals, fees, 
or other payments under a right-of-way, permit, lease, 
or other authorization--
(i) for the period beginning on January 1, 
2027, and ending on December 31, 2046--
(I) 25 percent shall be paid by the 
Secretary of the Treasury to the State 
within the boundaries of which the 
revenue is derived;
(II) 25 percent shall be paid by 
the Secretary of the Treasury to the 1 
or more counties within the boundaries 
of which the revenue is derived, to be 
allocated among the counties based on 
the percentage of land from which the 
revenue is derived;
(III) 15 percent shall be deposited 
in the Treasury and credited to the 
Bureau of Land Management's Renewable 
Energy Management account to be made 
available to the Secretary to carry out 
sections 3 and 4 (including amendments 
made by those sections), including the 
transfer of the funds by the Bureau of 
Land Management to other Federal 
agencies and State agencies to 
facilitate the processing of permits 
for renewable energy projects, with 
priority given to using the amounts, to 
the maximum extent practicable, without 
detrimental impacts to emerging 
markets, expediting the issuance of 
permits required for the development of 
wind and solar energy projects in the 
States from which the revenues are 
derived; and
(IV) 35 percent shall be deposited 
in the Fund; and
(ii) beginning on January 1, 2047--
(I) 25 percent shall be paid by the 
Secretary of the Treasury to the State 
within the boundaries of which the 
revenue is derived;
(II) 25 percent shall be paid by 
the Secretary of the Treasury to the 1 
or more counties within the boundaries 
of which the revenue is derived, to be 
allocated among the counties based on 
the percentage of land from which the 
revenue is derived;
(III) 10 percent shall be deposited 
in the Treasury and be made available 
to the Secretary to carry out sections 
3 and 4 (including amendments made by 
those sections), including the transfer 
of the funds by the Bureau of Land 
Management to other Federal agencies 
and State agencies to facilitate the 
processing of permits for wind and 
solar energy projects, with priority 
given to using the amounts, to the 
maximum extent practicable, without 
detrimental impacts to emerging 
markets, expediting the issuance of 
permits required for the development of 
renewable energy projects in the States 
from which the revenues are derived; 
and
(IV) 40 percent shall be deposited 
in the Fund.
(B) Rule for projects located in multiple states.--
Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary shall issue a proposed rule 
establishing a formula for the disposition of revenues 
under clauses (i)(I) and (ii)(I) of subparagraph (A) in 
a case in which a wind and solar energy project is 
located in more than 1 State.
(C) Filing fees.--With respect to wind and solar 
energy projects--
(i) subparagraph (A) does not apply to 
amounts collected from application filing fees 
authorized under section 304 of the Federal 
Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (43 
U.S.C. 1734); and
(ii) such application filing fees may be 
retained by the applicable agency to recover 
costs associated with issuing the right-of-way, 
permit, or other authorization associated with 
the application.
(2) Payments to states and counties.--
(A) In general.--Amounts paid to States and 
Counties under paragraph (1)(A) shall be used 
consistent with section 35 of the Mineral Leasing Act 
(30 U.S.C. 191).
(B) Payments in lieu of taxes.--A payment to a 
County under clause (i)(II) or (ii)(II) of paragraph 
(1)(A) shall be in addition to a payment in lieu of 
taxes received by the County under chapter 69 of title 
31, United States Code.
(3) Renewable energy resource conservation fund.--
(A) In general.--There is established in the 
Treasury a fund, to be known as the ``Renewable Energy 
Resource Conservation Fund'', which shall be 
administered by the Secretary.
(B) Use of funds.--
(i) In general.--The Secretary may make 
amounts in the Fund available to Federal, 
State, local, and Tribal agencies for 
distribution in regions in which renewable 
energy projects are located on Federal land, 
for the purposes described in clause (ii).
(ii) Purposes.--The purposes referred to in 
clause (i) are--
(I) restoring and protecting--
(aa) fish and wildlife 
habitat for species affected by 
renewable energy projects;
(bb) fish and wildlife 
corridors for species affected 
by renewable energy projects; 
and
(cc) wetlands, streams, 
rivers, and other natural water 
bodies in areas affected by 
renewable energy projects; and
(II) preserving and improving 
recreational access to Federal land and 
water in the applicable region through 
an easement, right-of-way, or other 
instrument from willing landowners for 
the purpose of enhancing public access 
to existing Federal land and water that 
is inaccessible or restricted due to 
renewable energy projects.
(C) Cooperative agreements.--The Secretary may 
enter into cooperative agreements with State and Tribal 
agencies, nonprofit organizations, and other 
appropriate entities to carry out the activities 
described in subparagraph (B).
(D) Investment of fund.--
(i) In general.--Any amounts deposited in 
the Fund shall earn interest in an amount 
determined by the Secretary of the Treasury on 
the basis of the current average market yield 
on outstanding marketable obligations of the 
United States of comparable maturities.
(ii) Use.--Any interest earned under clause 
(i) may be deposited into the Fund and used 
without further appropriation.
(E) Report to congress.--At the end of each fiscal 
year, the Secretary shall submit to the Committee on 
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate and the 
Committee on Natural Resources of the House of 
Representatives a report identifying--
(i) the amounts described in paragraph (1) 
that were collected during that fiscal year, 
organized by source;
(ii) the amount and purpose of payments 
made to each Federal, State, local, and Tribal 
agency under subparagraph (B) during that 
fiscal year; and
(iii) the amount remaining in the Fund at 
the end of the fiscal year.
(F) Intent of congress.--It is the intent of 
Congress that the revenues deposited and expended from 
the Fund shall supplement (and not supplant) annual 
appropriations for activities described in subparagraph 
(B).
(g) In General.--The Secretary of the Interior shall include in its 
annual budget requests staffing, contracting and technological 
resources necessary to meet the permitting timelines required in this 
Act and in 42 U.S.C. 4336a.
(h) Savings Clause.--Notwithstanding any other provision of this 
Act, the Secretary and the Secretary of Agriculture shall continue to 
manage public land under the principles of multiple use and sustained 
yield in accordance with title I of the Federal Land Policy and 
Management Act of 1976 (43 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) or the Forest and 
Rangeland Renewable Resources Planning Act of 1974 (16 U.S.C. 1600 et 
seq.), as applicable, for the purposes of land use planning, permit 
processing, and conducting environmental reviews.

SEC. 502. GEOTHERMAL COST RECOVERY.

(a) Cost Recovery From Geothermal Leasing, Permitting, and 
Inspections.--Section 6 of the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970 (30 U.S.C. 
1005) is amended by adding at the end the following:
``(j) Cost Recovery.--
``(1) In general.--During the period that begins on the 
date of enactment of this subsection and ends September 30, 
2033, the Secretary may require an applicant for, or a holder 
of, a geothermal lease to reimburse the United States for all 
reasonable administrative and other costs incurred by the 
United States from--
``(A) processing the application for the geothermal 
lease, including any application for an operations 
plan, geothermal drilling permit, utilization plan, 
site license, facility construction permit, commercial 
use permit, and any other approval associated with a 
geothermal lease; and
``(B) inspecting and monitoring--
``(i) geophysical exploration activities;
``(ii) the drilling, plugging, and 
abandonment of wells; and
``(iii) the construction, operation, 
termination, and reclamation of any well site 
or facility for the utilization of geothermal 
resources pursuant to the geothermal lease.
``(2) Considerations.--In determining whether to require 
reimbursement under paragraph (1), the Secretary shall consider 
whether there is in existence a cooperative cost share 
agreement between the United States and the holder of a 
geothermal lease.
``(3) Adjustments.--The Secretary may reduce the amount to 
be reimbursed under paragraph (1) if the Secretary determines--
``(A) that full reimbursement would impose an 
economic hardship on the applicant; or
``(B) that a less than full reimbursement is 
necessary to promote the greatest use of geothermal 
resources.
``(4) Use.--The amounts reimbursed under this subsection 
shall be credited to the currently applicable appropriation, 
account, or fund of the Department of the Interior as 
discretionary offsetting collections, and shall be available 
only to the extent provided in advance in appropriations Acts 
for--
``(A) processing the application for geothermal 
leases, including any application for operations plans, 
geothermal drilling permits, utilization plans, site 
licenses, facility construction permits, commercial use 
permits, and any other approval associated with 
geothermal leases; and
``(B) inspecting and monitoring--
``(i) geophysical exploration activities;
``(ii) the drilling, plugging, and 
abandonment of wells; and
``(iii) the construction, operation, 
termination, and reclamation of any well site 
or facility for the utilization of geothermal 
resources pursuant to geothermal leases.''.
(b) Report.--
(1) Report.--Not later than 5 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior, in 
consultation with the geothermal industry and other 
stakeholders, shall submit to the Committee on Natural 
Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate, and make publicly 
available on the website of the Department of the Interior, a 
report that includes--
(A) an assessment of how the amendments made by 
subsection (b) of this Act affected the Bureau of Land 
Management's geothermal program;
(B) any recommendations for reauthorization of 
section 6(j) of the Geothermal Steam Act of 1970, as 
added by this Act; and
(C) any other recommendations for updates to such 
section and the Bureau of Land Management's geothermal 
program.
(2) Considerations.--In developing the report required in 
paragraph (1), the Secretary of the Interior shall solicit 
facts or information from the geothermal industry and other 
stakeholders.

SEC. 503. GEOTHERMAL GOLD BOOK DEVELOPMENT.

(a) Identification.--Not later than 1 year after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Department of the Interior, in 
consultation with other relevant Federal agencies, shall identify 
standard procedures and guidelines for efficient and environmentally 
responsible geothermal leasing and permitting.
(b) Publication.--Not later than 180 days after identifying 
standard procedures and guidelines under subsection (a), the Department 
of the Interior shall publish a ``Gold Book'' containing such standard 
procedures and guidelines for use by the field offices of the Bureau of 
Land Management and geothermal operators.
(c) Consultation.--Before publishing the Gold Book, the Department 
of the Interior shall consult with--
(1) other relevant Federal agencies, including field 
offices of the Bureau of Land Management; and
(2) outside stakeholders, including developers and other 
experts.
(d) Inclusions.--The Gold Book shall include standard procedures 
and guidelines for--
(1) land use planning and geothermal lease sales; and
(2) ensuring the efficient review and approval of 
environmentally responsible geothermal development, including--
(A) exploration and geophysical operations;
(B) permitting lease operations;
(C) compliance with all applicable laws and 
regulations;
(D) construction and maintenance;
(E) drilling and production operations;
(F) appeals; and
(G) relevant categorical exclusions available at 
each stage.
(e) Periodic Revision.--The Department of the Interior shall--
(1) at least once every five years, review the Gold Book; 
and
(2) as necessary, revise the Gold Book.

Subtitle B--Offshore Renewable Deployment

SEC. 511. RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT OF OFFSHORE RENEWABLE ENERGY.

(a) Definitions.--Section 2 of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands 
Act (43 U.S.C. 1331) is amended--
(1) in the second subsection (r), as added by section 
50251(b)(1)(A)(iv) of Public Law 117-169--
(A) by redesignating such subsection (r) as 
subsection (t); and
(B) by inserting after the enumerator ``State.--''; 
and
(2) by adding at the end the following:
``(u) Offshore Renewable Energy Project.--The term `offshore 
renewable energy project' means a project to carry out an activity 
described in section 8(p)(1)(C) related to wind, solar, wave, or tidal 
energy.''.
(b) National Policy for the Outer Continental Shelf.--Section 3 of 
the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1332) is amended--
(1) by amending paragraph (3) to read as follows:
``(3) the outer Continental Shelf is a vital national 
resource reserve held by the Federal Government for the public, 
which can be made available for orderly development, subject to 
environmental safeguards and coexistence with other ocean 
users, in a manner which includes--
``(A) supporting the generation, transmission, and 
storage of zero-emission electricity; and
``(B) the maintenance of competition and other 
national needs, including the need to achieve State and 
Federal zero-emission electricity or renewable energy 
mandates, targets, and goals;'';
(2) by redesignating paragraphs (5) and (6) as paragraphs 
(6) and (7), respectively; and
(3) by inserting after paragraph (4) the following:
``(5) the identification and development of lease areas for 
offshore renewable energy projects should be determined by a 
robust and transparent stakeholder process that incorporates 
engagement and input from a diverse group of ocean users and 
other impacted stakeholders, and Federal, State, Tribal, and 
local governments;''.
(c) Leases, Easements, and Rights-of-Way on the Outer Continental 
Shelf.--Section 8(p) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 
U.S.C. 1337(p)) is amended--
(1) in paragraph (2)--
(A) in subparagraph (B)--
(i) by striking ``27'' and inserting 
``17'';
(ii) by striking ``three'' and inserting 
``100''; and
(iii) by striking ``15'' and inserting 
``100''; and
(B) by adding at the end the following:
``(C) Payments for conservation and mitigation 
activities.--
``(i) In general.--Notwithstanding section 9, the 
Secretary shall, without appropriation or fiscal year 
limitation, use 10 percent of the revenue received by 
the Federal Government from royalties, fees, rents, 
bonuses, and other payments from any lease, easement, 
or right-of-way granted under this subsection to 
provide grants to--
``(I) State, local, and Tribal governments, 
and regional partnerships thereof, including 
Regional Ocean Partnerships, Regional Wildlife 
Science Collaboratives, and other similar 
organizations; and
``(II) nonprofit organizations.
``(ii) Use of grants.--Grants provided under clause 
(i) shall be used for carrying out activities related 
to marine and coastal habitat protection and 
restoration, mitigation of damage to natural resources 
and marine life that results from activities authorized 
by this subsection, relevant research and data sharing 
initiatives, or increasing the organizational capacity 
of an entity described in subclause (I) or (II) of 
clause (i) to increase the effectiveness of entities 
that carry out such activities.
``(D) Offshore renewable energy compensation fund.--
Notwithstanding section 9, the Secretary shall, without 
appropriation or fiscal year limitation, deposit 10 percent of 
the revenue received by the Federal Government from royalties, 
fees, rents, bonuses, and other payments from any lease, 
easement, or right-of-way granted under this subsection into 
the Offshore Renewable Energy Compensation Fund established 
under section 34.'';
(2) by amending paragraph (3) to read as follows:
``(3) Leasing.--
``(A) Competitive or noncompetitive basis.--The 
Secretary shall issue a lease, easement, or right-of-
way under paragraph (1) on a competitive basis unless 
the Secretary determines after public notice of a 
proposed lease, easement, or right-of-way that there is 
no competitive interest.
``(B) Schedule of offshore renewable energy lease 
sales.--The Secretary shall, after providing an 
opportunity for public notice and comment, publish and 
periodically update a schedule not less frequently than 
every 5 years of areas that may be available for 
leasing in the future for offshore renewable energy 
projects, indicating, to the extent possible, the 
timing of site identification activities, the timing of 
designation of any area to be leased, the anticipated 
size of such areas, the timing of lease sales, and the 
location of leasing activities.
``(C) Multi-factor bidding.--
``(i) In general.--The Secretary may 
consider non-monetary factors when 
competitively awarding leases under paragraph 
(1), which may include commitments made by the 
bidder to--
``(I) support educational, 
training, and skills development, 
including supporting or increasing 
access to registered apprenticeship 
programs and pre-apprenticeship 
programs that have an articulation 
agreement with a registered 
apprenticeships program for offshore 
renewable energy projects;
``(II) support development of 
domestic supply chains for offshore 
renewable energy projects, including 
development of ports and other energy 
infrastructure necessary to facilitate 
offshore renewable energy projects;
``(III) establish a community 
benefit agreement with 1 or more 
community or stakeholder groups that 
may be impacted by the development and 
operation of an offshore renewable 
energy project, which may include 
covered entities;
``(IV) make investments to 
evaluate, monitor, improve, and 
mitigate impacts to the health and 
biodiversity of ecosystems and wildlife 
from the development and operation of 
an offshore renewable energy project;
``(V) support the development and 
use of shared transmission 
infrastructure connecting to offshore 
renewable energy projects; and
``(VI) make other investments 
determined appropriate by the 
Secretary.
``(ii) Contractual commitments.--When 
considering non-monetary factors under this 
subparagraph, the Secretary may--
``(I) evaluate the quality of 
commitments made by the bidder; and
``(II) reward finalized binding 
agreements above assurances for future 
commitments.
``(iii) Definitions.--In this subparagraph:
``(I) Covered entity.--The term 
`covered entity' has the meaning given 
such term in section 34(k).
``(II) Registered apprenticeship 
program.--The term `registered 
apprenticeship program' means an 
apprenticeship program registered under 
the Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly 
known as the National Apprenticeship 
Act; 50 Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 
U.S.C. 50 et seq.).'';
(3) by amending paragraph (4) to read as follows:
``(4) Requirements.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary shall ensure that 
any activity under this subsection is carried out in a 
manner that provides for--
``(i) safety;
``(ii) protection of the environment, which 
includes facilitation of the generation, 
transmission, and storage of zero-emission 
electricity;
``(iii) prevention of waste;
``(iv) conservation of the natural 
resources of the outer Continental Shelf;
``(v) coordination with relevant Federal 
agencies and State, Tribal, and local 
governments;
``(vi) protection of national security 
interests of the United States;
``(vii) protection of correlative rights in 
the outer Continental Shelf;
``(viii) a fair return to the United States 
for any lease, easement, or right-of-way under 
this subsection;
``(ix) reasonable uses (as determined by 
the Secretary) of the exclusive economic zone, 
the high seas, and the territorial seas;
``(x) consideration of--
``(I) the location of, and any 
schedule relating to, a lease, 
easement, or right-of-way for an area 
of the outer Continental Shelf; and
``(II) any other use of the sea or 
seabed, including use for a fishery, a 
sealane, a potential site of a 
deepwater port, or navigation;
``(xi) public notice and comment on any 
proposal submitted for a lease, easement, or 
right-of-way under this subsection;
``(xii) oversight, inspection, research, 
monitoring, and enforcement relating to a 
lease, easement, or right-of-way under this 
subsection; and
``(xiii) satisfaction of any applicable 
State and Federal renewable and clean energy 
mandates, targets, and goals.
``(B) Project labor agreements.--
``(i) In general.--Beginning not later than 
January 1, 2026, the Secretary shall require, 
as a term or condition of each lease, right-of-
way, and easement, as applicable, for an 
offshore renewable energy project that the 
holder of the lease, right-of-way, or easement, 
(and any successor or assignee) and its agents, 
contractors, and subcontractors engaged in the 
construction of any facilities for such 
offshore renewable energy project agree, for 
purposes of such construction, to negotiate and 
become a party to a project labor agreement 
with 1 or more labor organizations. A project 
labor agreement shall bind all contractors and 
subcontractors on the project through the 
inclusion of appropriate specifications in all 
relevant solicitation provisions and contract 
documents. The Secretary shall not approve a 
construction and operations plan with respect 
to any offshore renewable energy project until 
being assured by the lessee that such project 
labor agreement will be maintained for the 
duration of the project.
``(ii) Definitions.--In this subparagraph:
``(I) Construction.--The term 
`construction' includes reconstruction, 
rehabilitation, modernization, 
alteration, conversion, extension, 
repair, or improvement of any facility, 
structure, or other real property 
(including any onshore facilities) for 
an offshore renewable energy project.
``(II) Labor organization.--The 
term `labor organization' means a labor 
organization as defined in section 2(5) 
of the National Labor Relations Act (29 
U.S.C. 152(5))--
``(aa) of which building 
and construction employees are 
members; and
``(bb) that directly, or 
through its affiliates, 
sponsors a registered 
apprenticeship program.
``(III) Project labor agreement.--
The term `project labor agreement' 
means a pre-hire collective bargaining 
agreement with 1 or more labor 
organizations that establishes the 
terms and conditions of employment for 
a specific construction project and is 
an agreement described in section 8(e) 
and (f) of the National Labor Relations 
Act (29 U.S.C. 158(f)).
``(IV) Registered apprenticeship 
program.--The term `registered 
apprenticeship program' means an 
apprenticeship program registered under 
the Act of August 16, 1937 (commonly 
known as the National Apprenticeship 
Act; 50 Stat. 664, chapter 663; 29 
U.S.C. 50 et seq.).
``(C) Domestic content.--
``(i) In general.--With respect to the 
construction of facilities for an offshore 
renewable energy project that begins after 
January 1, 2033, the Secretary shall require 
that--
``(I) all structural iron and steel 
products that are (upon completion of 
construction) components of such 
facilities for an offshore renewable 
energy project shall be produced in the 
United States; and
``(II) not less than 80 percent of 
the total costs of all manufactured 
products that are (upon completion of 
construction) components of such 
facilities shall be attributable to 
manufactured products which are mined, 
produced, or manufactured in the United 
States.
``(ii) Waiver.--The Secretary may waive the 
requirements of clause (i) in any case or 
category of cases in which the Secretary finds 
that--
``(I) applying clause (i) would be 
inconsistent with the public interest;
``(II) such products are not 
produced in the United States in 
sufficient and reasonably available 
quantities and of a satisfactory 
quality; or
``(III) the use of such products 
will increase the cost of the overall 
project by more than 25 percent.
``(iii) Public notification.--If the 
Secretary receives a request for a waiver under 
this subparagraph, the Secretary shall make 
available to the public a copy of the request 
and information available to the Secretary 
concerning the request, and shall allow for 
informal public input on the request for at 
least 15 business days prior to making a 
finding based on the request. The Secretary 
shall make the request and accompanying 
information available to the public by 
electronic means, including on the official 
public Internet site of the Department of the 
Interior.
``(iv) International agreements.--This 
paragraph shall be applied in a manner 
consistent with United States obligations under 
international agreements.'';
(4) by amending paragraph (7) to read as follows:
``(7) Coordination and consultation.--The Secretary shall 
provide for coordination and consultation with--
``(A) the Governor of any State or the executive of 
any local government that may be affected by a lease, 
easement, or right-of-way under this subsection; and
``(B) Indian Tribes (following the procedures of 
the President's Memorandum of Uniform Standards for 
Tribal Consultation, issued on November 30, 2022 (87 
Fed. Reg. 74479), or any subsequent order) before 
undertaking any activities under this subsection that 
may have a direct, indirect, or cumulative impact on--
``(i) the land, including allotted, ceded, 
or traditional land, or interests in such land 
of an Indian Tribe or member of an Indian 
Tribe;
``(ii) Tribal land, cultural practices, 
resources, or access to traditional areas of 
cultural or religious importance;
``(iii) any part of any Federal land that 
shares a border with Indian country, as such 
term is defined in section 1151 of title 18, 
United States Code;
``(iv) the protected rights of an Indian 
Tribe, whether or not such rights are 
enumerated in a treaty, including water, 
hunting, gathering, and fishing rights;
``(v) the ability of an Indian Tribe to 
govern or provide services to members of the 
Indian Tribe;
``(vi) the relationship between the Federal 
Government and an Indian Tribe; or
``(vii) the trust responsibility of the 
Federal Government to an Indian Tribe.'';
(5) by amending paragraph (10) to read as follows:
``(10) Applicability.--
``(A) In general.--This subsection does not apply 
to any area on the outer Continental Shelf within the 
exterior boundaries of any unit of the National Park 
System, National Wildlife Refuge System, or National 
Marine Sanctuary System, or any National Monument.
``(B) Certain transmission infrastructure.--
``(i) In general.--Notwithstanding 
subparagraph (A), if otherwise authorized 
pursuant to the National Marine Sanctuaries Act 
(16 U.S.C. 1431 et seq.), the Secretary may 
issue a lease, easement, or right-of-way to 
enable the transmission of electricity 
generated by an offshore renewable energy 
project.
``(ii) Terms and conditions.--In issuing a 
lease, easement, or right-of-way under clause 
(i), the Secretary may approve and regulate the 
construction and operation of such transmission 
facilities (including electrical substations 
and other related infrastructure) for the 
transmission of electricity generated by such 
projects in a manner that minimizes 
environmental impacts.
``(iii) Coordination.--In regulating the 
construction and operation of transmission 
facilities and related infrastructure under 
clause (ii), the Secretary shall coordinate 
with the Secretary of Commerce to ensure the 
duration of any necessary authorizations of 
such facilities under the National Marine 
Sanctuaries Act aligns with the duration of the 
relevant leases, easements, or rights-of-way 
issued under clause (i).''; and
(6) by adding at the end the following:
``(11) Planning area impact studies.--
``(A) In general.--Beginning three years after the 
date of enactment of this paragraph, before holding any 
lease sale pursuant to paragraph (1) for an area, the 
Secretary shall conduct a study of such area, or the 
wider planning area that includes such area, in order 
to establish information needed for assessment and 
management of the environmental impacts on the human, 
marine, and coastal environments of the outer 
Continental Shelf and the coastal areas which may be 
affected by offshore renewable energy projects in such 
area or planning area.
``(B) Inclusions.--A study conducted under 
subparagraph (A) shall--
``(i) incorporate the best available 
existing science and data;
``(ii) identify areas for which there is 
insufficient science and data; and
``(iii) include consideration of the 
cumulative impacts (including potential 
navigational impacts) of offshore renewable 
energy projects on human, marine, and coastal 
environments.
``(C) Use of data and assessments.--The Secretary 
shall use the data and assessments included in studies 
conducted under this paragraph, as appropriate, when 
deciding--
``(i) which portions of an area or region 
are most appropriate to make available for 
leasing; and
``(ii) whether to issue any permit or other 
authorization that is necessary to carry out an 
offshore renewable energy project.
``(D) NEPA applicability.--The Secretary shall not 
consider a study conducted under subparagraph (A) to be 
a major Federal action under section 102(2)(C) of the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
4332(2)(C)).
``(12) Capacity building and community engagement.--
``(A) In general.--The Secretary, in consultation 
with the Secretary of Commerce, may award grants to 
entities to build organizational capacity and enhance 
engagement opportunities related to offshore renewable 
energy project development, including environmental 
reviews and permitting activities of such projects.
``(B) Purposes.--Grants awarded under subparagraph 
(A) shall be used by entities to--
``(i) enable States, Indian Tribes, 
affected ocean users, and nonprofit 
associations that represent affected ocean 
users to compile data, conduct analyses, 
educate stakeholders, and complete other 
activities relating to offshore renewable 
energy project development;
``(ii) engage in planning activities and in 
the development of offshore wind projects for 
the purposes of--
``(I) determining potential 
economic, social, public health, and 
environmental benefits and impacts; and
``(II) identifying opportunities to 
mitigate such impacts;
``(iii) facilitate siting of offshore 
renewable energy projects and associated 
electric transmission infrastructure; and
``(iv) hire and train personnel, and other 
activities designed to increase the capacity of 
States, Indian Tribes, and nonprofit 
associations, as applicable, to carry out 
activities described in clauses (i) through 
(iii).
``(C) Prioritization.--When awarding grants under 
subparagraph (A), the Secretary shall prioritize 
awarding grants that will be used to build 
organizational capacity and enhance community 
engagement opportunities of Indian Tribes.
``(D) Authorization of appropriations.--There are 
authorized to be appropriated to the Secretary to carry 
out this paragraph $25,000,000 for each of fiscal years 
2026 through 2030.''.
(d) Reservations.--Section 12(a) of the Outer Continental Shelf 
Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1341(a)) is amended to read as follows--
``(a) Withdrawal of Unleased Lands by the President.--
``(1) In general.--The President of the United States may, 
from time to time, withdraw from disposition any of the 
unleased lands of the outer Continental Shelf.
``(2) Reversal for certain offshore renewable energy 
projects.--With respect to a withdrawal under paragraph (1) of 
unleased lands from disposition, the President may reverse such 
a withdrawal only to allow for leasing under section 
(8)(p)(1)(C) and only if the President determines that 
environmental, national security, or national or regional 
energy conditions or demands have changed such that a reversal 
would be in the public interest.''.
(e) Citizen Suits, Court Jurisdiction, and Judicial Review.--
Section 23(c)(2) of the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 
1349(c)(2)) is amended to read as follows:
``(2) Any action of the Secretary to approve, require modification 
of, or disapprove any exploration plan or development and production 
plan under this Act, or any plan, final lease, easement, or right-of-
way granted pursuant to section (8)(p)(1) (and any related final 
Federal agency actions), shall be subject to judicial review only in a 
United States court of appeals for a circuit in which an affected State 
is located.''.
(f) Report on Decommissioning of Offshore Renewable Energy 
Projects.--Not later than 10 years after the date of enactment of this 
Act, the Secretary of the Interior shall submit to Congress, and make 
publicly available, a report evaluating decommissioning options for 
offshore renewable energy projects (and associated electric 
transmission infrastructure), including an assessment of the potential 
for the holder of a lease, easement, or right-of-way to keep facilities 
in place or otherwise convert such facilities to artificial reefs to 
support marine habitats, provided that such facilities will not 
adversely impact navigation, national security, the marine environment, 
Tribal uses, or other competing uses of the outer Continental Shelf.
(g) Updating Regulations.--Not later than 270 days after the date 
of enactment of this section, the Secretary of the Interior shall issue 
any necessary regulations to carry out this section and the amendments 
made by this section.

SEC. 512. COMPENSATION FOR OFFSHORE RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECTS.

The Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act (43 U.S.C. 1331 et seq.) is 
amended by adding at the end the following:

``SEC. 34. OFFSHORE RENEWABLE ENERGY COMPENSATION FUND.

``(a) Establishment.--There is established in the Treasury of the 
United States the Offshore Renewable Energy Compensation Fund, which 
shall be used by the Secretary, or a third-party the Secretary enters 
into a contract with, to provide to covered entities--
``(1) payments for claims--
``(A) described under subsection (f)(1); and
``(B) verified pursuant to subsection (d)(1); and
``(2) grants to carry out mitigation activities described 
in subsection (f)(2).
``(b) Availability of Fund.--The Fund shall be available to the 
Secretary without fiscal year limitations for the purpose of providing 
payments and grants under subsection (a).
``(c) Accounts.--The Fund shall--
``(1) consist of the royalties, fees, rents, bonuses, and 
other payments deposited under section 8(p)(2)(D); and
``(2) be divided into separate area accounts from which 
payments and grants shall be provided based on the area in 
which damages occur.
``(d) Regulations.--The Secretary shall establish, by regulation, a 
process to--
``(1) file, process, and verify claims for purposes of 
providing payments under subsection (a)(1); and
``(2) apply for a grant provided under subsection (a)(2).
``(e) Payment Amount.--Payments provided under subsection (a)(1) 
shall--
``(1) be based on the scope of the verified claim;
``(2) be fair and provided efficiently and in a transparent 
manner; and
``(3) if the covered entity receiving the payment has or 
will receive direct compensation for the verified claim 
pursuant to a community benefit agreement or other agreement 
between such covered entity and a holder of a lease, easement, 
or right-of-way, be reduced by an amount that is equal to the 
amount of such direct compensation.
``(f) Claims; Mitigation Grants.--
``(1) Claims.--A payment may be provided under subsection 
(a)(1) for a verified claim to--
``(A) replace or repair gear that was lost or 
damaged by the development, construction, operation, or 
decommissioning of an offshore renewable energy 
project; or
``(B) replace income that was lost from the 
development, construction, operation, or 
decommissioning of an offshore renewable energy 
project.
``(2) Mitigation grants.--If the Secretary determines that 
there are sufficient amounts in an area account of the Fund to 
provide payments for all verified claims at any given time, the 
Secretary may use amounts in the Fund to provide grants to 
covered entities, and other entities determined appropriate by 
the Secretary, to mitigate the potential effects of 
development, construction, operation, and decommissioning of an 
offshore renewable energy project, including by paying for gear 
changes, navigation technology improvements, and other measures 
to enhance the safety and resiliency of the covered entities 
near an offshore renewable energy project.
``(g) Advisory Group.--
``(1) In general.--The Secretary shall establish and 
regularly convene an advisory group that shall provide 
recommendations on the development and administration of this 
section.
``(2) Membership.--The advisory group shall--
``(A) be comprised of individuals--
``(i) appointed by the Secretary; and
``(ii) representing the geographic 
diversity of areas impacted by the development, 
construction, operation, or decommissioning of 
offshore renewable energy projects; and
``(B) include representatives from--
``(i) recreational fishing interests;
``(ii) commercial fishing interests;
``(iii) Tribal fishing interests;
``(iv) the National Marine Fisheries 
Services;
``(v) the fisheries science community; and
``(vi) other fields of expertise necessary 
to effectively develop and administer this 
section, as determined by the Secretary.
``(3) Travel expenses.--The Secretary may provide amounts 
to any member of the advisory group to pay for travel expenses, 
including per diem in lieu of subsistence, at rates authorized 
for an employee of an agency under section 5703 of title 5, 
United States Code, while away from the home or regular place 
of business of the member in the performance of the duties of 
the advisory group.
``(h) Insufficient Funds.--
``(1) In general.--If the Secretary determines that an area 
account does not contain a sufficient amount to provide 
payments under subsection (a)(1), the Secretary may, not more 
than once each calendar year, require any holder of an offshore 
renewable energy lease located within the area covered by the 
area account to pay an amount specified by the Secretary, which 
shall be deposited into such area account.
``(2) Amount.--No holder of an offshore renewable energy 
lease shall be required to pay an amount under paragraph (1) in 
excess of $3 per acre of the leased land described in paragraph 
(1).
``(i) Administrative Expenses.--The Secretary may use up to 15 
percent of the amount deposited into the Fund under section 8(p)(2)(D) 
during a given fiscal year for administrative expenses to carry out 
this section.
``(j) Annual Report.--The Secretary shall submit to Congress, and 
make publicly available, an annual report on activities carried out 
under this section, including a description of claims filed and the 
amount of payments and grants provided.
``(k) Definitions.--In this section:
``(1) Covered entity.--The term `covered entity' means--
``(A) a community, stakeholder, or Tribal 
interest--
``(i) that uses a geographic space of a 
lease area, or uses resources harvested from a 
geographic space of a lease area; and
``(ii) for which such use is directly and 
adversely impacted by the development, 
construction, operation, or decommissioning of 
an offshore renewable energy project located in 
such leased area; or
``(B) a regional association, cooperative, non-
profit organization, commission, or corporation that--
``(i) serves a community, stakeholder, or 
Tribal interest described in subparagraph (A); 
and
``(ii) acts on behalf of such a community, 
stakeholder, or Tribal interest for purposes of 
this section, including by submitting a claim 
for a covered entity.
``(2) Fund.--The term `Fund' means the Offshore Renewable 
Energy Compensation Fund established under subsection (a).
``(3) Lease area.--The term `lease area' means an area 
covered by an offshore renewable energy lease.
``(4) Offshore renewable energy lease.--The term `offshore 
renewable energy lease' means a lease, easement, or right-of-
way granted under section 8(p)(1)(C).''.

SEC. 513. INTEROPERABILITY OF OFFSHORE ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION 
INFRASTRUCTURE.

(a) Study.--Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of 
this Act, the Secretary of Energy shall complete and publish on the 
website of the Department of Energy a study that assesses the need to, 
and challenges of, developing and standardizing interoperable electric 
grid components, systems, and technologies in support of shared 
offshore transmission networks. Such study shall include 
recommendations for Congress, State, Tribal, and local governments, 
manufacturers of electric grid components, systems, and technologies, 
Transmission Organizations, offshore electricity generation project 
developers, and appropriate standards organizations to help ensure 
interoperability of electric grid components, systems, and technologies 
between offshore electricity generation projects and shared offshore 
infrastructure connecting to onshore transmission systems.
(b) Interoperability Standard Development Program.--
(1) In general.--The Secretary of Energy shall establish 
and implement a program to identify, develop, support, 
document, and encourage the adoption of standards necessary to 
maximize the interoperability of electric grid components, 
systems, and technologies to accelerate the implementation and 
delivery of electricity generated by offshore electricity 
generation projects through shared electricity transmission 
infrastructure.
(2) Goals.--The goals of establishing and implementing the 
program under paragraph (1) shall be--
(A) to harmonize and standardize functional 
specifications of electric grid components, systems, 
and technologies to maximize the interoperability of 
electric grid components, systems, and technologies 
across types and manufacturers;
(B) to hasten adoption of shared electric 
transmission infrastructure, including interregional 
transmission infrastructure, for offshore electricity 
generation by encouraging cooperation among 
manufacturers of electric grid components, systems, or 
technologies in order to--
(i) maximize interoperability of such 
manufacturers' electric grid components, 
systems, or technologies;
(ii) reduce offshore electricity generation 
project delays and cost overruns;
(iii) manage power grid complexity; and
(iv) enhance electric grid resilience, 
reliability, and cybersecurity; and
(C) to identify common technical specifications to 
effectively and securely measure, monitor, control, and 
protect offshore electricity generation and electric 
transmission infrastructure from the point of 
generation to load centers.
(3) Financial assistance.--Under the program established 
and implemented under paragraph (1), the Secretary may provide 
grants to--
(A) engage equipment manufacturers and industry 
stakeholders in collaborative platforms, including 
workshops and forums;
(B) identify current challenges and propose 
solutions to improve interoperability of electric grid 
components, systems, and technologies;
(C) develop a set of voluntary industry standards 
to maximize interoperability of electric grid 
components, systems, and technologies that meet the 
goals described in paragraph (2); and
(D) promote data sharing alignment with the 
Department of Energy, the National Oceanic and 
Atmospheric Administration, and the Bureau of Ocean 
Energy Management to integrate oceanographic, wildlife, 
and grid planning data relevant to offshore 
transmission corridors.
(c) Authorization of Appropriations.--There are authorized to be 
appropriated to the Secretary of Energy to carry out this section 
$5,000,000, to remain available until expended.
(d) Definition.--In this section, the term ``Transmission 
Organization'' has the meaning given such term in section 3(29) of the 
Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 796).

TITLE VI--PROTECTING CONSUMERS IN ELECTRICITY REGULATION

SEC. 601. UTILITY EARNINGS TIED TO RATEPAYER BENEFITS.

(a) Amendments to the Federal Power Act.--
(1) In general.--Section 219 of the Federal Power Act (16 
U.S.C. 824s) is amended--
(A) in subsection (a)--
(i) by striking ``Not later than 1 year 
after the date of enactment of this section, 
the Commission shall establish, by rule,'' and 
inserting ``The Commission shall issue such 
rules as may be necessary to establish''; and
(ii) by inserting ``, improving 
efficiency,'' after ``ensuring reliability'';
(B) in subsection (b)--
(i) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), 
by striking ``The rule shall'' and inserting 
``The rules issued under this section shall'';
(ii) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``, and 
operational improvements for,'' after ``capital 
investment in'';
(iii) in paragraph (2)--
(I) by inserting ``or other 
incentive mechanism'' after ``return on 
equity''; and
(II) by inserting ``or incentivizes 
improvements that increase the 
efficiency of the transmission of 
electric energy and reduce costs for 
consumers'' after ``(including related 
transmission technologies)'';
(iv) in paragraph (3), by inserting ``, 
including performance-based measures,'' after 
``other measures''; and
(v) in paragraph (4)--
(I) in subparagraph (A), by 
striking ``; and'' and inserting a 
semicolon;
(II) in subparagraph (B), by 
striking the period and inserting ``; 
and''; and
(III) by adding at the end the 
following new subparagraph:
``(C) amounts determined pursuant to shared savings 
frameworks or other incentive mechanisms prescribed in 
such rules.''; and
(C) by amending subsection (c) to read as follows:
``(c) Transmission Organization-Based Incentives.--
``(1) Transmission organization membership.--In a rule 
issued under this section, the Commission shall, to the extent 
within its jurisdiction, provide for incentives to each 
transmitting utility or electric utility that joins a 
Transmission Organization.
``(2) Initial membership incentive.--In carrying out 
paragraph (1), the Commission shall provide for an electric 
utility to yield a return on equity incentive--
``(A) of not more than 50 basis points for the 3-
year period beginning on the date on which the electric 
utility joins a Transmission Organization; and
``(B) the transfer of a transmitting utility from 1 
transmission organization to another shall not trigger 
a new period under subparagraph (A).
``(3) Regional and interregional facility incentive.--After 
the expiration of the period under paragraph (2)(A), the 
Commission may provide a return on equity incentive of not more 
than 75 basis points with respect to transmission facilities of 
such utility that--
``(A) provide demonstrable benefits to customers on 
a regional or interregional basis, as determined by the 
Commission; and
``(B) are selected in a transmission planning 
process conducted by a Transmission Organization or by 
2 or more such organizations on an interregional basis.
``(4) Incentives for non-members.--In the case of an 
electric utility that is not a member of a Transmission 
Organization, the Commission may provide an additional return 
on equity incentive of not more than 25 basis points with 
respect to transmission facilities that satisfy the criteria 
set forth in paragraph (3).
``(5) Guardrails.--In determining whether, and at what 
level, to provide incentives under this subsection, the 
Commission may consider--
``(A) measurable customer benefits, including 
reliability, resilience, and congestion cost 
reductions;
``(B) cost discipline, including consistency with 
least-cost planning and mitigation of excessive capital 
bias; and
``(C) the persistence and magnitude of expected 
benefits.
``(6) Duration and review.--The Commission may establish 
time limits for incentives under this subsection and shall 
provide for periodic review and adjustment or termination of 
such incentives if the underlying bases for the incentives no 
longer exist.
``(7) Method of cost recovery.--The Commission shall ensure 
that any costs recoverable pursuant to this subsection may be 
recovered by such utility through the transmission rates 
charged by such utility or through the transmission rates 
charged by the Transmission Organization that provides 
transmission service to such utility.''.
(2) Rulemakings.--
(A) Deadline.--Not later than 1 year after the date 
of the enactment of this section, the Commission shall 
revise the rule issued under section 219 of the Federal 
Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824s) to implement the amendment 
made by paragraph (1)(C).
(B) Considerations.--In revising the rule specified 
in paragraph (1)(C) with respect to the implementation 
of the return on equity incentive under section 219(c) 
of the Federal Power Act, as amended by such paragraph, 
the Commission shall take into consideration the 
following:
(i) The Notice of Proposed Rulemaking 
titled ``Electric Transmission Incentives 
Policy Under Section 219 of the Federal Power 
Act'', published in the Federal Register on 
April 2, 2020 (85 Fed. Reg. 18784).
(ii) The Supplemental Notice of Proposed 
Rulemaking titled ``Electric Transmission 
Incentives Policy Under Section 219 of the 
Federal Power Act'', published in the Federal 
Register on April 26, 2021 (86 Fed. Reg. 
21972).
(b) Rulemaking on Shared Savings Framework for Transmitting 
Utilities Subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 
Jurisdiction.--
(1) Rule required.--Not later than one year after the date 
of the enactment of this section, the Commission shall issue a 
final rule under section 219(b)(3) of the Federal Power Act (16 
U.S.C. 824s(b)(3)), as amended by subsection (a), that 
establishes a framework under which a covered transmitting 
utility may recover a portion of verified cost savings 
attributable to a qualifying action of such transmitting 
utility as an incentive (in this subsection referred to as the 
``shared savings framework'').
(2) Methodologies.--The Commission shall develop and 
include in the rule under paragraph (1) standardized 
methodologies, applicable across similarly situated 
transmission segments, as follows:
(A) Baseline performance methodologies.--
Methodologies, developed in consultation with the 
Secretary, for covered transmitting utilities to 
determine the annual baseline performance of 
transmission facilities or transmission segments absent 
qualifying actions--
(i) by measuring the baseline performance 
of such a transmission facility or transmission 
segment--
(I) through the actual amount of 
electrical energy entering and leaving 
such facility or segment (commonly 
referred to as ``direct metering''); or
(II) if the method under subclause 
(I) is not feasible, through an 
estimation of such amount consistent 
with modeling methodologies prescribed 
by the Commission; and
(ii) by normalizing data to ensure such 
baseline performance accounts for variability 
in exogenous factors determined by the 
Commission, such as variability in--
(I) weather;
(II) demand over time;
(III) upgrades, interconnections, 
or operational changes made by other 
utilities, Independent System Operators 
or Regional Transmission Organizations, 
or other entities determined relevant 
by the Commission; or
(IV) other conditions affecting 
demand or generation.
(B) Methodologies relating to cost savings.--
Methodologies for covered transmitting utilities to 
estimate and calculate, and for independent evaluators 
to verify, the cost savings attributable to qualifying 
actions under the shared savings framework, taking into 
account--
(i) the baseline performance of any 
transmission facility or transmission segment 
with respect to which a qualifying action is 
conducted; and
(ii) price proxies, determined according to 
a methodology prescribed by the Commission, for 
the value of electric energy transmitted (which 
may include, for a region managed by an 
Independent System Operator or Regional 
Transmission Organization, the locational 
marginal price corresponding to the location on 
the electric grid where an injection or 
withdrawal of power is modeled (commonly 
referred to as a ``pricing node'')).
(C) Methodologies relating to recoverable 
percentage and rate recovery timeline.--
(i) In general.--Methodologies for covered 
transmitting utilities to determine, taking 
into account the factors described in clause 
(ii), the following:
(I) The total percentage of cost 
savings attributable to a qualifying 
action that such a utility may recover 
as an incentive under the shared 
savings framework, which may not be 
less than 10 percent or greater than 60 
percent of such total attributable cost 
savings (in this subsection referred to 
as the ``recoverable percentage'' of 
such savings).
(II) The period of time during 
which such a utility may recover 
amounts as an incentive for such an 
action, which may not be shorter than a 
2-year period or longer than a 5-year 
period (in this subsection referred to 
as the ``rate recovery timeline'' for 
such action).
(ii) Factors.--The factors described in 
this clause are the following:
(I) The extent of financial or 
operational risk to be assumed by a 
covered transmitting utility in 
conducting a qualifying action.
(II) The baseline performance for 
transmission facilities or transmission 
segments with respect to which such 
action is to be conducted.
(III) The replicability or 
demonstration value of such action.
(IV) The duration of cost savings 
predicted to result from such action 
and whether such cost savings will 
remain consistent over such duration.
(V) The extent to which such action 
is expected to result in additional 
benefits, such as improvements to the 
resilience or the reliable operation of 
the bulk-power system, reductions to 
transmission congestion, or reductions 
to greenhouse gas emissions.
(VI) Such other factors as the 
Commission may determine relevant to 
ensure the incentive is performance-
based, transparent, and cost-effective.
(3) Initial filing required.--To be considered for an 
incentive under the shared savings framework for the conduct of 
a qualifying action, a covered transmitting utility shall 
submit to the Commission an initial filing, the contents of 
which shall be verified by an independent evaluator determined 
appropriate by the Commission, that includes the following:
(A) An identification of the baseline performance 
of any transmission facility or transmission segment 
with respect to which such action is to be conducted 
for the 1-year period preceding the date on which such 
conduct is to be commenced, determined by such utility 
pursuant to an applicable methodology under paragraph 
(2)(A) (including the data underlying such 
calculation).
(B) A description of such action, including an 
analysis of improvements expected to result from such 
action.
(C) The rate recovery timeline for such action and 
the recoverable percentage of cost savings attributable 
to such action, determined pursuant to an applicable 
methodology under paragraph (2)(C).
(D) An estimate, developed pursuant to an 
applicable methodology under paragraph (2)(B), of the 
cost savings to result from such action for--
(i) the 1-year period beginning on the date 
on which the conduct of such action commences; 
and
(ii) the duration of the rate recovery 
timeline for such action.
(E) A claim for 50 percent of the recoverable 
percentage of cost savings estimated under subparagraph 
(D)(i).
(F) An agreement by such utility to file with the 
Commission the annual reports required under paragraph 
(4), the contents of which shall be verified by an 
independent evaluator determined appropriate by the 
Commission.
(4) Annual reporting required.--Beginning 1 year after the 
date on which a covered transmitting utility submits an initial 
filing for a qualifying action under paragraph (3), and on an 
annual basis thereafter until the end of the rate recovery 
timeline for such action determined under subparagraph (C) of 
such paragraph or until such action no longer results in cost 
savings, whichever occurs first, such utility shall file with 
the Commission a report containing, with respect to the 
qualifying action of such utility, the following:
(A) Data on the performance during the preceding 
year of any transmission facility or transmission 
segment with respect to which such action was 
conducted, and a comparison of such performance to the 
baseline performance of that transmission facility or 
transmission segment determined pursuant to an 
applicable methodology under paragraph (2)(A) for such 
year.
(B) The actual cost savings attributable to the 
qualifying action for the preceding year, calculated 
pursuant to an applicable methodology under paragraph 
(2)(B).
(C) If such utility expects cost savings to result 
from the qualifying action during the following year, 
an estimate, developed pursuant to an applicable 
methodology under paragraph (2)(B), of the cost savings 
for such following year.
(D) A claim for the following:
(i) An amount that is the recoverable 
percentage of the actual cost savings for the 
preceding year calculated under subparagraph 
(B) minus any amount previously recovered based 
on an estimate of cost savings for such year 
under paragraph (5)(A) or paragraph (5)(B)(ii), 
as the case may be.
(ii) If the report includes an estimate of 
cost savings for the following year under 
paragraph (5), an amount that is 50 percent of 
the recoverable percentage of such estimated 
cost savings.
(E) If such utility finds that the total amount 
recovered for a year under paragraph (5) exceeds the 
amount equal to the total recoverable percentage of the 
actual cost savings for that year under subparagraph 
(B), an identification of the excess amount.
(5) Recovery mechanism.--
(A) Rate adjustment based on initial filing.--Not 
later than 60 days after receiving an initial filing of 
a covered transmitting utility under paragraph (3), the 
Commission shall provide to such utility a rate 
adjustment under which such utility may recover the 
amount claimed under paragraph (3)(D).
(B) Rate adjustment based on annual reports.--Not 
later than 60 days after receiving an annual report of 
a covered transmitting utility under paragraph (4), the 
Commission shall provide to such utility a rate 
adjustment under which--
(i) subject to subparagraph (C), such 
utility may recover the amount claimed under 
paragraph (4)(D)(i); and
(ii) if the report included a claim under 
paragraph (4)(D)(ii), such utility may recover 
the amount so claimed.
(C) Reconciliation.--If a utility identifies an 
excess amount under paragraph (4)(E), or the Commission 
determines the information reported for that year under 
paragraph (4) is insufficient for purposes of this 
paragraph, the Commission shall credit the difference 
to ratepayers through a rate adjustment.
(6) Sense of congress regarding additional rulemakings.--It 
is the sense of Congress that--
(A) following the issuance of the rule under 
paragraph (1), the Commission should revise such rule, 
or issue additional rules under the authority of 
section 219(b)(3) of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 
824s(b)(3)), as amended by subsection (a), to expand 
the shared savings framework to additional categories 
of measurable, demonstrable, and verifiable covered 
transmission actions;
(B) any such rule should include a version of the 
methodologies developed under paragraph (2) adapted for 
such additional categories; and
(C) any such rule should take into account the 
findings of the most recently conducted study under 
subsection (e).
(c) Guidance for Electric Utilities Not Subject to Federal Energy 
Regulatory Commission Jurisdiction.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Secretary, in coordination with 
the Commission and State regulatory authorities, shall develop 
and publish on a publicly available website of the Department 
of Energy guidance to support State regulatory authorities in 
establishing frameworks under which covered electric utilities 
may recover a portion of verified cost savings attributable to 
a covered utility action as an incentive.
(2) Minimum elements.--The guidance under paragraph (1) 
shall include--
(A) guidance, developed in accordance with 
paragraph (3), for determining the baseline performance 
of a covered electric utility absent a covered utility 
action;
(B) guidance, developed in accordance with 
paragraph (4), for determining the cost savings 
attributable to a covered utility action;
(C) guidance for the measurement and verification 
of a covered utility action, and any cost savings 
attributable to such action, by an independent 
evaluator determined appropriate by the State 
regulatory authority concerned;
(D) guidance on potential mechanisms by which 
covered electric utilities may recover a portion of the 
verified cost savings attributable to a covered utility 
action, including through the provision of rate 
adjustments by State regulatory authorities; and
(E) such other elements as the Secretary determines 
appropriate to ensure the framework specified in 
paragraph (1) is transparent, performance-based, cost-
effective, and consistent with State ratemaking 
practices.
(3) Methodology for determining baseline performance.--
(A) In general.--In developing the guidance under 
paragraph (2)(A), the Secretary, acting through the 
heads of the Grid Deployment Office, Office of 
Electricity, and Office of Energy Efficiency and 
Renewable Energy of the Department of Energy, in 
coordination with the Commission, shall--
(i) consult with State regulatory 
authorities, Independent System Operators, 
Regional Transmission Organizations, and 
independent evaluators determined appropriate 
by the Secretary regarding such guidance;
(ii) include in such guidance technical 
guidance for normalizing data to ensure the 
baseline performance of a covered electric 
utility accounts for variability in exogenous 
factors, such as variability in--
(I) weather;
(II) demand over time;
(III) upgrades, interconnections, 
or operational changes made by other 
utilities, Independent System Operators 
or Regional Transmission Organizations, 
or other entities determined relevant 
by the Commission; or
(IV) other conditions affecting 
demand or generation, as determined by 
the Secretary; and
(iii) ensure such guidance supports 
consistent treatment across covered electric 
utilities within each category described in 
paragraph (5).
(B) Support from national laboratories.--The 
National Laboratories shall provide such technical 
support as the Secretary determines necessary to carry 
out this paragraph.
(4) Guidance on determining cost savings.--In developing 
the guidance under paragraph (2)(B), the Secretary shall--
(A) include in such guidance--
(i) principles to ensure that cost savings 
attributable to a covered utility action are 
calculated in a manner that takes into account 
price proxies for the value of electric energy 
and the baseline performance of the covered 
electric utility; and
(ii) tools, technical support, and 
reference data to assist State regulatory 
authorities in applying the principles 
specified in clause (i); and
(B) ensure such guidance supports consistent 
treatment across covered electric utilities within each 
category described in paragraph (5).
(5) Applicability to utility market structures.--In 
carrying out paragraph (1), the Secretary shall develop 
separate guidance for each category of covered electric 
utilities as follows:
(A) Vertically integrated utilities.
(B) Covered electric utilities that own or operate 
transmission infrastructure but not distribution or 
generation infrastructure.
(C) Covered electric utilities that own or operate 
distribution infrastructure but not transmission or 
generation infrastructure.
(D) Covered electric utilities that own or operate 
distribution and transmission infrastructure but not 
generation infrastructure.
(6) Revisions.--Upon the publication of each report under 
subsection (e), the Secretary shall determine whether to revise 
the guidance under paragraph (1), taking into account the 
contents of such report and the recommendations included 
therein.
(d) Grant Program for State Regulatory Authorities.--
(1) Establishment.--Not later than 2 years after the date 
of the enactment of this section, the Secretary shall establish 
a program under which the Secretary may award grants to State 
regulatory authorities to support the development, 
implementation, and oversight by such State regulatory 
authorities of frameworks under which covered electric 
utilities may recover a portion of verified cost savings 
attributable to a covered utility action as an incentive (in 
this subsection referred to as the ``grant program'').
(2) Authorized uses of funds.--Amounts awarded under the 
grant program may only be used to conduct the following 
activities:
(A) The development of a framework referred to in 
paragraph (1), or revision of an existing such 
framework, such that the framework is consistent with 
the guidance developed under subsection (c), including 
the following:
(i) The development, including the design 
or modeling, of methodologies consistent with 
the methodologies set forth under such 
guidance.
(ii) The development of data systems or 
other tools necessary for the development of 
the framework.
(iii) The issuance or revision of 
regulations necessary for the development of 
the framework.
(iv) The engagement with stakeholders with 
respect to the development of the framework.
(B) The implementation or oversight of a framework 
consistent with such guidance.
(3) Prohibited use of funds.--No amounts awarded under the 
grant program may be used to pay a covered electric utility.
(4) Grant recipient reporting requirement.--
(A) In general.--As a condition of receiving 
amounts under the grant program, a State regulatory 
authority shall agree to submit to the Secretary, on an 
annual basis for the duration of the period in which 
such State regulatory authority expends such amounts, a 
report describing the activities carried out using such 
amounts.
(B) Effect of noncompliance.--If a grant recipient 
fails to submit a report required under subparagraph 
(A), such recipient shall be ineligible for additional 
awards under this subsection until the report is 
submitted.
(5) Administration of program.--
(A) Technical support; public registry.--In 
carrying out the grant program, the Secretary shall--
(i) provide to grant recipients technical 
assistance in support of activities conducted 
using amounts awarded under the grant program; 
and
(ii) maintain a publicly accessible 
registry of the activities so conducted.
(B) Reporting by secretary.--Not later than 2 years 
after the date of enactment of this section, and 
biennially thereafter for the duration of the grant 
program, the Secretary shall submit to the appropriate 
congressional committees a report containing--
(i) a summary of the activities conducted 
using amounts awarded under the grant program;
(ii) an assessment of the effectiveness of 
any framework implemented using such amounts; 
and
(iii) an identification of any barrier to 
the development, implementation, or oversight 
of a framework consistent with the guidance 
developed under subsection (c) and 
recommendations for addressing such barrier, as 
applicable.
(C) Allocation of funds.--Of the amounts authorized 
to be appropriated or otherwise made available to the 
Secretary to carry out the grant program--
(i) not more than 70 percent may be awarded 
for the conduct of activities under paragraph 
(2)(A);
(ii) not less than 30 percent may be 
awarded for the conduct of activities under 
paragraph (2)(B); and
(iii) not more than 5 percent may be 
obligated or expended for Federal 
administrative expenses.
(e) Studies on Effects of Certain Rate Treatments and Alternative 
Frameworks.--
(1) Studies required.--Not later than 3 years after the 
date of enactment of this section, and every 5 years 
thereafter, the Secretary, in consultation with the Commission, 
shall--
(A) conduct a study on--
(i) inefficiencies in the electric power 
sector incentivized by existing rate treatments 
for the transmission of electric energy and any 
economic, environmental, or societal effect of 
such inefficiencies, including with respect to 
the customers of electric utilities, the 
reliable operation of the bulk-power system, 
and the deployment of cost-effective advanced 
transmission technologies; and
(ii) alternative frameworks for incentive-
based, including performance-based, rate 
treatments for such transmission, such as the 
alternative frameworks described in paragraph 
(2); and
(B) publish on a publicly available website of the 
Department of Energy, and submit to the appropriate 
congressional committees, a report that includes--
(i) a detailed description of the findings 
of such study; and
(ii) recommendations of the Secretary to 
align rate treatments for the transmission of 
electric energy with the goals of lowering 
costs for the customers of electric utilities, 
enhancing the reliable operation of the bulk-
power system, reducing transmission congestion 
and other inefficiencies in the transmission or 
delivery of electric energy, and encouraging 
the deployment of cost-effective advanced 
transmission technologies.
(2) Examples of alternative frameworks.--The alternative 
frameworks described in this paragraph are the following:
(A) Shared savings frameworks.
(B) Revenue decoupling models, under which 
authorized revenues of utilities are separated from 
volumetric sales of electricity to reduce disincentives 
for energy efficiency and programs to reduce the 
consumption of, or peak demand for, electric energy.
(C) Return on equity adjustments, under which 
authorized utility returns are increased or decreased 
based on measurable factors such as risk profile, 
performance outcomes, or efficiency improvements.
(D) Multi-year rate plans, under which revenue 
requirements and performance expectations for utilities 
are established for a fixed multi-year period rather 
than through single-year rate cases.
(E) Earnings sharing mechanisms, under which 
earnings of utilities falling outside an authorized 
range as compared to the return on equity are shared 
between shareholders and ratepayers.
(F) Total expenditure models, under which capital 
and operating expenditures of utilities are treated on 
an equivalent basis to reduce bias toward capital 
investment.
(G) Performance scorecards, under which utilities 
are evaluated against transparent outcome-based metrics 
such as reliability, affordability, equity, or the 
reduction of emissions, with results informing 
regulatory decisions or incentive adjustments.
(3) Sources.--The Secretary shall ensure that each study 
under paragraph (1) is informed by--
(A) reports filed with the Commission pursuant to 
subsections (b) and (d) of this section, and section 
304 of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 825c);
(B) relevant reports issued by the National 
Laboratories; and
(C) such other studies, reports, and other data 
sources as the Secretary may determine appropriate.
(f) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Advanced conductor.--The term ``advanced conductor'' 
means an electric transmission conductor that, relative to a 
conductor being replaced on a given transmission or 
distribution line, is designed to substantially improve 
electrical or mechanical performance through the achievement of 
the following criteria, as determined by the Commission:
(A) A substantial increase in current-carrying 
capacity under normal operating conditions.
(B) A substantial reduction in electrical 
resistance or line losses under normal operating 
conditions.
(C) Operation at materially higher continuous 
allowable operating temperatures.
(D) A reduction in thermal sag or mechanical 
constraints that enables increased use of a 
transmission segment or facility.
(2) Advanced transmission technology.--The term ``advanced 
transmission technology'' means any hardware or software that--
(A) increases the capacity, efficiency, 
reliability, resilience, or safety of transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies;
(B) is installed in addition to new or existing 
transmission facilities and transmission technologies--
(i) to give operators of the transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies more 
situational awareness and control over the 
electric grid;
(ii) to make the transmission facilities 
and transmission technologies more efficient; 
or
(iii) to increase the transfer capacity of 
the transmission facilities and transmission 
technologies; and
(C) includes, but is not limited to, dynamic line 
ratings, advanced conductors, topology optimization, 
advanced power-flow controls, and other digital or 
physical systems that increase the usable transfer 
capability of the grid.
(3) Appropriate congressional committees.--The term 
``appropriate congressional committees'' means--
(A) the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the 
House of Representatives; and
(B) the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources 
of the Senate.
(4) Bulk-power system; electric utility; independent system 
operator; regional transmission organization; state regulatory 
authority; transmitting utility.--The terms ``bulk-power 
system'', ``electric utility'', ``Independent System 
Operator'', ``Regional Transmission Organization'', ``State 
regulatory authority'', and ``transmitting utility'' have the 
meanings given such terms in section 3 of the Federal Power Act 
(16 U.S.C. 796).
(5) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission.
(6) Covered electric utility.--The term ``covered electric 
utility'' means an electric utility not subject to the 
jurisdiction of the Commission for ratemaking purposes under 
Part II of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824 et seq.).
(7) Covered action.--The term ``covered action''--
(A) means an action that would generate cost 
savings for ratepayers; and
(B) does not include the construction of a new 
facility or the complete reconstruction of an existing 
facility.
(8) Covered transmission action.--The term ``covered 
transmission action'' means a covered action to improve the 
efficiency, capacity, reliability, or resilience of 1 or more 
transmission facilities or transmission segments, including 
through--
(A) the replacement of a conductor on a 
transmission line within such a facility or segment 
with an advanced conductor; or
(B) the deployment of an advanced transmission 
technology.
(9) Covered transmitting utility.--The term ``covered 
transmitting utility'' means a transmitting utility subject to 
the jurisdiction of the Commission for ratemaking purposes 
under part II of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824 et seq.).
(10) Covered utility action.--The term ``covered utility 
action'' means a covered action taken by an electric utility 
to--
(A) improve the efficiency of the generation, 
transmission, or distribution of electric energy, 
including by reducing the proportion of electrical 
energy lost during such generation, transmission, or 
distribution (including through the deployment of 
energy storage systems or other technologies); or
(B) reduce the consumption of, or peak demand for, 
electric energy, including through--
(i) a technological improvement, such as 
the deployment of high-efficiency appliances, 
smart thermostats, distributed energy 
resources, or building retrofits;
(ii) the establishment of a pricing 
mechanism to encourage customers of the 
electric utility to reduce such consumption or 
shift such demand to non-peak hours; or
(iii) any other action or program to 
incentivize or otherwise produce such a 
reduction or shift in demand.
(11) Qualifying action.--The term ``qualifying action'' 
means a covered transmission action achieved through the 
reduction of transmission physical losses.
(12) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Energy.
(13) Similarly situated.--The term ``similarly situated'', 
with respect to transmission segments, means transmission 
segments that the Commission determines share comparable 
characteristics, such as voltage class, geography, load 
profile, or historical performance.
(14) Transmission physical loss.--The term ``transmission 
physical loss'' means the amount of electrical energy that 
enters a transmission segment but does not exit such 
transmission segment, as measured over a prescribed period of 
time.
(15) Transmission segment.--The term ``transmission 
segment'' means a functionally distinct portion of an 
interconnected transmission system (such as a single 
transmission line or multiple transmission lines within a 
prescribed zone, such as between prescribed substations), for 
which the amount of electrical energy transmitted and the 
amount of electrical energy lost during such transmission may 
be independently measured, as determined by the Commission.
(16) Vertically integrated electric utility.--The term 
``vertically integrated electric utility'' means a covered 
electric utility that--
(A) owns and operates generation, transmission, and 
distribution facilities; and
(B) directly provides retail electric service to 
end-use customers.

SEC. 602. CONSUMER PROTECTION FROM ENERGY MARKET MANIPULATION.

(a) Amendments to the Federal Power Act.--
(1) Enforcement of certain provisions.--Section 316A of the 
Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 825o-1) is amended by adding at 
the end the following:
``(c) Prohibition or Suspension for Violations.--The Commission may 
prohibit, conditionally or unconditionally, permanently or for such 
period of time as the Commission determines to be appropriate, any 
person who is engaged or has engaged in practices constituting a 
violation of section 221 or 222 (and related rules and regulations) 
from engaging, directly or indirectly, in the business of purchasing or 
selling--
``(1) electric energy;
``(2) electric energy products, including financial 
transmission rights; or
``(3) transmission services subject to the jurisdiction of 
the Commission.''.
(2) Conforming amendments.--Section 314(d) of the Federal 
Power Act (16 U.S.C. 825m(d)) is amended--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1)--
(i) by striking ``individual'' and 
inserting ``person''; and
(ii) by inserting ``or 222'' after 
``section 221'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``with respect 
to a person who is an individual,'' before ``acting''; 
and
(C) in paragraph (2)--
(i) in the matter preceding subparagraph 
(A), by inserting ``, directly or indirectly,'' 
after ``engaging'';
(ii) in subparagraph (A), by striking ``; 
or'' and inserting a semicolon;
(iii) by redesignating subparagraph (B) as 
subparagraph (C); and
(iv) by inserting after subparagraph (A) 
the following:
``(B) electric energy products, including financial 
transmission rights; or''.
(b) Amendments to Natural Gas Act.--
(1) Prohibition on filing false information.--The Natural 
Gas Act (15 U.S.C. 717 et seq.) is amended by inserting after 
section 4A the following:

``SEC. 4B. PROHIBITION ON FILING FALSE INFORMATION.

``No person shall willfully and knowingly report to a Federal 
agency or private-sector price-reporting agency, with intent to 
fraudulently affect the data being compiled by the Federal agency or 
private-sector price-reporting agency, any information relating to the 
transportation or sale of natural gas subject to the jurisdiction of 
the Commission (including information relating to the availability and 
prices of natural gas sold at wholesale and in interstate commerce and 
information relating to the operation of facilities for the 
transportation and sale of natural gas at wholesale and in interstate 
commerce) that the person knows to be false at the time of the 
reporting.''.
(2) Civil penalty authority.--Section 22 of the Natural Gas 
Act (15 U.S.C. 717t-1) is amended by adding at the end the 
following:
``(d) Prohibition or Suspension for Violations.--The Commission may 
prohibit, conditionally or unconditionally, permanently or for such 
period of time as the Commission determines to be appropriate, any 
person who is engaged or has engaged in practices constituting a 
violation of section 4A or 4B (including related rules and regulations) 
from engaging, directly or indirectly, in the business of purchasing or 
selling--
``(1) natural gas; or
``(2) transmission services subject to the jurisdiction of 
the Commission.''.
(3) Conforming amendments.--Section 20(d) of the Natural 
Gas Act (15 U.S.C. 717s(d)) is amended--
(A) in the matter preceding paragraph (1), by 
striking ``individual'' and inserting ``person'';
(B) in paragraph (1), by inserting ``with respect 
to a person who is an individual,'' before ``acting''; 
and
(C) in paragraph (2), in the matter preceding 
subparagraph (A), by inserting ``, directly or 
indirectly,'' after ``engaging''.

SEC. 603. AVOIDING COST SHIFTS ONTO FAMILIES.

(a) In General.--Section 111(d) of the Public Utility Regulatory 
Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2621(d)) is amended by adding at the 
end the following:
``(22) Large load facility class.--
``(A) Classification.--Large load facilities shall 
be considered a class of electric consumers.
``(B) Cost recovery relating to large load facility 
class.--Each electric utility that provides electric 
service to a class of electric consumers described in 
subparagraph (A) shall fully recover from such class 
all costs associated with any upgrade made to the 
generation, transmission, or distribution facilities of 
the electric grid, including local facilities, in order 
to meet the demand for electric energy from such class, 
including in the event that a large load facility 
ceases operations or uses less electric energy than 
projected at the time of such upgrade.
``(23) Grid reliability for large load facilities.--Each 
electric utility shall prioritize, among requests from owners 
or operators of large load facilities for electric service, 
such a request under which the owner or operator agrees to 
employ--
``(A) features that reduce the demand for electric 
energy from the electric grid during times of peak 
demand, including--
``(i) energy efficiency or energy 
conservation measures;
``(ii) onsite energy storage; or
``(iii) demand response or load flexibility 
technologies; and
``(B) zero-emission electric energy generated 
onsite or procured within the same balancing authority 
through a power purchase agreement to meet all of the 
demand of the large load facility for electric 
energy.''.
(b) Definitions.--Section 111 of the Public Utility Regulatory 
Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2621) is amended by adding at the end 
the following:
``(e) Definitions.--For the purposes of subsection (d):
``(1) Large load facility.--The term `large load 
facility'--
``(A) means a facility, or an aggregation of 
facilities at a single site, with respect to which the 
peak demand of such facility or such aggregation of 
facilities exceeds 75 megawatts; and
``(B) does not include an existing facility with 
respect to which any increased demand is predominantly 
caused by electrification or measures to reduce 
greenhouse gas emissions.
``(2) Zero-emission electric energy.--The term `zero-
emission electric energy' means electric energy generated 
without emitting greenhouse gases, including from solar, wind, 
geothermal, hydroelectric, tidal, fission, or fusion energy.''.
(c) Conforming Amendments.--
(1) Obligations to consider and determine.--Section 112 of 
the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 
2622) is amended--
(A) in subsection (b), by adding at the end the 
following:
``(9)(A) Not later than 1 year after the date of enactment 
of this paragraph, each State regulatory authority (with 
respect to each electric utility for which the State has 
ratemaking authority) and each nonregulated utility shall 
commence consideration under section 111, or set a hearing date 
for consideration, with respect to each standard established by 
paragraphs (22) and (23) of section 111(d).
``(B) Not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this paragraph, each State regulatory 
authority (with respect to each electric utility for 
which the State has ratemaking authority), and each 
nonregulated electric utility shall complete the 
consideration and make the determination under section 
111 with respect to each standard established by 
paragraphs (22) and (23) of section 111(d).
``(C) Not later than 30 days after completing the 
determination and making a determination under section 
111 with respect to each standard established by 
paragraphs (22) and (23) of section 111(d), each State 
regulatory authority (with respect to each electric 
utility for which the State has ratemaking authority), 
and each nonregulated electric utility shall submit to 
the Committee on Energy and Commerce of the House of 
Representatives and the Committee on Energy and Natural 
Resources of the Senate a report detailing the process 
used for consideration and an explanation for the 
determination.'';
(B) in subsection (c)--
(i) by striking ``subsection (b)(2)'' and 
inserting ``subsection (b)''; and
(ii) by inserting ``In the case of the 
standard established by paragraphs (22) and 
(23) of section 111(d), the reference contained 
in this subsection to the date of enactment of 
this Act shall be deemed to be a reference to 
the date of enactment of such paragraphs (22) 
and (23).'' after ``paragraph (21).''; and
(C) by adding at the end the following:
``(i) Other prior state actions.--
Subsections (b) and (c) shall not apply to the 
standards established by paragraphs (22) and 
(23) of section 111(d) in the case of any 
electric utility in a State if, before the date 
of enactment of this subsection--
``(I) the State has implemented for 
the electric utility the standard 
concerned (or a comparable standard);
``(II) the State regulatory 
authority for the State or the relevant 
nonregulated electric utility has 
conducted a proceeding to consider 
implementation of the standard 
concerned (or a comparable standard) 
for the electric utility; or
``(III) the State legislature has 
voted on the implementation of the 
standard concerned (or a comparable 
standard) for the electric utility 
during the 3-year period ending on that 
date of enactment.''.
(2) Prior and pending proceedings.--Section 124 of the 
Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2634) 
is amended by inserting ``In the case of each standard 
established by paragraphs (22) and (23) of section 111(d), the 
reference contained in this section to the date of enactment of 
this Act shall be deemed to be a reference to the date of 
enactment of such paragraphs (22) and (23).'' after ``paragraph 
(21).''.

SEC. 604. TRUE COSTS AND VALUE OF ENERGY FOR ECONOMIC AND PUBLIC 
BENEFIT.

(a) Energy Productivity Assessments.--
(1) Baseline assessment.--Not later than 2 years after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Energy, in 
consultation with the Task Force established under subsection 
(c) of this Act, shall publish a comprehensive baseline 
assessment of energy productivity in the United States, which 
shall, at a minimum--
(A) define a framework and methodology for 
measuring energy productivity as the relationship 
between energy inputs and the economic or societal 
value of the work performed by those inputs, at the 
national, regional, and sectoral levels;
(B) evaluate current energy productivity 
performance at the national, regional, and sectoral 
levels;
(C) identify barriers to improved energy 
productivity across economic sectors; and
(D) highlight opportunities for improvement through 
technology, policy, behavioral, or structural 
interventions.
(2) Periodic national energy productivity reporting.--Not 
later than 6 months after the publication of the baseline 
assessment under paragraph (1), and at least quarterly 
thereafter, the Administrator of the Energy Information 
Administration shall publish a report on energy productivity in 
the United States using the same measures of economic output in 
each sector and nationally as those used in the estimates of 
labor productivity published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 
The Administrator of the Energy Information Administration 
shall coordinate with the Secretary of Labor on such energy 
productivity reports so the publication of such energy 
productivity reports is on the same timeline as the reporting 
of labor productivity by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
(3) National energy productivity modeling.--Not later than 
18 months after the date of enactment of this Act, and every 
three years thereafter, the Secretary of Energy shall produce a 
comprehensive National Energy Productivity Assessment using 
existing Federal modeling tools and data systems. The 
assessment shall--
(A) quantify the direct and indirect economic, 
environmental, health, and societal impacts of 
achieving accelerated energy productivity improvements, 
relative to a business-as-usual scenario, at the 
national, regional, and sectoral levels;
(B) analyze potential policy pathways to enhance 
competitiveness, reduce energy costs, increase 
resilience, and support job creation;
(C) evaluate how such improvements affect national 
and regional well-being, including reductions in 
pollution, energy costs, public health burdens, water 
use, and economic vulnerability;
(D) evaluate risks associated with delayed action, 
including stranded asset exposure and competitiveness 
losses; and
(E) include, as appropriate, recommendations for 
Federal policies, programs, and research priorities to 
support sustained energy productivity gains.
(4) Reports on energy productivity and competitiveness.--
Not later than 2 years after the date of enactment of this Act, 
the Secretary of Energy shall submit to Congress a report 
detailing how improvements in energy productivity in the United 
States affects United States competitiveness in key economic 
sectors, including manufacturing, services, and energy-
intensive industries. The report shall include modeling 
scenarios, investment implications, and policy options to 
maximize national economic benefits from improved energy 
productivity.
(b) Improving Energy Indicators.--
(1) Standardized reporting on energy indicators.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 18 months after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Task Force 
established under subsection (c) of this Act shall 
develop standardized methodologies for collecting, 
evaluating, assembling, analyzing, and disseminating 
data and other information on the following indicators:
(i) National energy potential, where the 
term ``national energy potential'' means the 
theoretical maximum amount of energy physically 
present within a country's geographic boundary, 
including the country's Exclusive Economic 
Zone, across all energy forms, including--
(I) energy stocks for--
(aa) oil and gas, in units 
of chemical energy, which 
includes--

(AA) proven 
reserves as determined 
by the Energy 
Information 
Administration;

(BB) probable 
reserves as determined 
by the Energy 
Information 
Administration;

(CC) undiscovered 
technically recoverable 
resources as determined 
by the United States 
Geological Survey; and

(DD) undiscovered 
unrecoverable resources 
as determined by the 
United States 
Geological Survey;

(bb) coal, in units of 
chemical energy, which includes 
identified and undiscovered 
resources, as determined by the 
United States Geological 
Survey; and
(cc) nuclear fuel, in units 
of fissionable energy from 
reasonably assured, estimated 
additional, and speculative 
uranium and thorium resources, 
as determined by the Energy 
Information Administration; and
(II) energy flows for--
(aa) solar energy, in units 
of annual total Global 
Horizontal Irradiance;
(bb) wind energy, in units 
of annual kinetic energy from 
wind at hub heights and 
atmospheric conditions 
consistent with commercial wind 
energy applications, as 
determined by the Department of 
Energy;
(cc) hydropower energy, in 
units of annual gravitational 
potential energy from inland 
water flows that, at a minimum, 
could power a micro hydropower 
plant, as determined by the 
Department of Energy;
(dd) geothermal energy, in 
units of annual subsurface 
thermal energy at a subsurface 
depth of 10 kilometers or less, 
or under temperature, pressure, 
and geological conditions 
suitable for energy extraction, 
as determined by the Department 
of Energy;
(ee) biomass-based energy, 
in units of annual chemical 
energy, including primary 
resources, and secondary and 
tertiary residues, as 
determined by the Department of 
Energy; and
(ff) marine energy, in 
units of annual mechanical, 
thermal, and chemical potential 
energy in the Exclusive 
Economic Zone of the United 
States.
(ii) Technically-accessible energy 
potential, where the term ``technically-
accessible energy potential'' means the 
theoretical maximum amount of national energy 
potential that can be accessed and converted 
into usable energy using existing commercially-
available technologies and industry-standard 
practices, without regard to cost or policy.
(iii) Cost-qualified energy potential, 
where the term ``cost-qualified energy 
potential'' means the theoretical maximum 
amount of technically-accessible energy 
potential that could be profitably developed 
and delivered as usable energy under current or 
anticipated near-term economic conditions, as 
determined using prevailing market prices, 
technology costs, and industry-standard 
practices, considering existing ordinances and 
regulations and current industry practices for 
siting for energy stocks and energy flows.
(iv) Market-viable energy potential, where 
the term ``market-viable energy potential'' 
means the amount of cost-qualified energy 
potential that is already online or likely to 
be developed and brought online in practice, at 
the time of reporting in subsection 
(b)(1)(B)(ii).
(v) Secondary energy, where the term 
``secondary energy''--
(I) means the amount of energy 
resources that have been converted into 
intermediate carriers electricity 
generation;
(II) represents energy forms that 
can be stored, transported, 
distributed, or further converted 
before final consumption; and
(III) includes, but is not limited 
to, electricity, refined fuels (such as 
refined petroleum products, hydrogen, 
or synthetic fuels), and district heat.
(vi) Final energy, where the term ``final 
energy''--
(I) means the amount of secondary 
energy in the form delivered for end-
use consumption for consumption in 
buildings, transportation, industrial 
processes, or other sectors or 
applications; and
(II) includes, but is not limited 
to, electricity, refined fuels (such as 
refined petroleum products, hydrogen, 
or synthetic fuels), and district heat.
(vii) Useful energy, where the term 
``useful energy''--
(I) means the amount of final 
energy that is effectively converted 
into the desired service or output 
after accounting for energy losses 
during end-use conversion; and
(II) includes lighting, mechanical 
work and motion, heating and cooling, 
chemical process energy, and any other 
end-use services delivered to meet a 
desired function.
(viii) Exergy, where term ``exergy'' means 
the amount of usable energy and resulting work 
obtainable from a system or energy stream, 
accounting for both the quantity and quality of 
energy.
(ix) Exergy efficiency, where the term 
``exergy efficiency'' means the extent to which 
the exergy is preserved and converted into 
valuable economic or societal services during 
their use for a given system, sector, or 
economy.
(B) Incorporation of new indicators in department 
reporting.--
(i) In general.--Not later than 2 years 
after the initial development of the 
standardized methodologies under paragraph (1), 
the Secretary of Energy shall, as part the 
Department of Energy's modeling frameworks, 
scenario analysis tools, and energy outlooks, 
collect, evaluate, assemble, analyze, and 
disseminate data and other information related 
to the indicators listed in clauses (i) through 
(ix) of subparagraph (A).
(ii) Covered reporting.--The modeling 
frameworks, scenario analysis tools, and energy 
outlooks described in clause (i) include--
(I) the Annual Energy Outlook;
(II) to the maximum extent 
possible--
(aa) the Monthly Energy 
Review;
(bb) the International 
Energy Outlook;
(cc) the State Energy Data 
System; and
(dd) the Short-Term Energy 
Outlook; and
(III) any successor model or 
analysis to a model or analysis 
described in subclauses (I) and (II).
(C) Transparency and documentation.--The 
Administrator of the Energy Information Administration 
shall publish and maintain detailed documentation on 
how the Task Force developed the methodologies under 
subparagraph (A).
(2) Study on primary energy indicators.--
(A) Required study.--The Secretary of Energy, with 
support from the Administrator of the Energy 
Information Administration, relevant offices within the 
Department of Energy, and the Task Force, shall conduct 
a comprehensive study on the validity, limitations, and 
potential alternatives to the use of the indicators for 
primary energy in national energy accounting.
(B) Scope of study.--The study shall include--
(i) an evaluation of the conceptual basis 
and historical rationale for the current 
indicator for primary energy calculated and 
reported by the Energy Information 
Administration;
(ii) an assessment of the limitations of 
primary energy accounting in accurately 
reflecting energy efficiency, energy 
transitions, and the value and comparability of 
combustible and non-combustible energy sources;
(iii) an analysis of alternative 
indicators, including secondary energy, final 
energy, useful energy, and exergy, and their 
suitability for integration into national 
energy statistics;
(iv) a review of international best 
practices for energy accounting, including 
methodologies used by the International Energy 
Agency and peer nations; and
(v) recommendations for improvements or 
replacements to the primary energy indicator 
that better align with national goals for 
energy efficiency, electrification, 
decarbonization, and economic productivity.
(C) Report to congress.--Not later than 18 months 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary 
of Energy shall submit to the Committee on Energy and 
Commerce of the House of Representatives and the 
Committee on Energy and Natural Resources of the Senate 
a report containing the findings and recommendations of 
the study required under subparagraph (A).
(c) Establishment of Energy Productivity and Cost Task Force.--
(1) Establishment.--Not later than 180 days after the date 
of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of Energy shall 
establish an advisory group, to be known as the ``Energy 
Productivity and Value Task Force'' (in this Act referred to as 
the ``Task Force''), which shall be led by the Secretary of 
Energy.
(2) Membership.--
(A) Federal agencies.--The following heads of 
Federal agencies shall serve as members of the Task 
Force:
(i) The Secretary of Energy.
(ii) The Secretary of Commerce.
(iii) The Administrator of the 
Environmental Protection Agency.
(iv) The Administrator of the Energy 
Information Administration.
(v) The Chairman of the Federal Energy 
Regulatory Commission.
(vi) The Administrator of the National 
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
(vii) The Director of the United States 
Geological Survey.
(viii) The Assistant Secretary for Health 
of the Department of Health and Human Services.
(ix) The Director of the Office of Science 
and Technology Policy.
(B) Independent technical experts.--
(i) In general.--The Secretary of Energy, 
in consultation with the other heads of Federal 
agencies listed in subparagraph (A), shall 
appoint independent technical experts as 
members of the Task Force, which shall consist 
of independent technical experts with a 
demonstrated expertise in--
(I) environmental and energy 
economics;
(II) energy technologies, including 
renewables, fossil fuel systems, 
bioenergy, and energy storage;
(III) public health and 
environmental epidemiology;
(IV) ecology and ecosystem 
services;
(V) industrial engineering and 
lifecycle assessment; and
(VI) any other field the Oversight 
Board determines relevant for the 
purposes of this Act.
(ii) Number of experts.--Under subparagraph 
(A), the Secretary of Energy shall appoint--
(I) at least 1 independent 
technical expert for each field under 
subclauses (I) through (VI) of such 
subparagraph; and
(II) separate independent technical 
experts for each such field.
(C) Stakeholder representatives.--The Secretary of 
Energy, in consultation with the other heads of Federal 
agencies listed in subparagraph (A), shall appoint 
stakeholders as members of the Task Force, which shall 
consist of at least 1, but not more than two, 
stakeholders that represent each of--
(i) the electric power sector;
(ii) the renewable energy sector;
(iii) the non-renewable energy sector;
(iv) consumer advocacy groups;
(v) energy-intensive industries;
(vi) environmental and public interest 
advocacy organizations;
(vii) the National Academies of Sciences, 
Engineering, and Medicine;
(viii) academic- and National Laboratory-
based researchers with expertise in--
(I) energy and economics;
(II) climate and economics; or
(III) environmental systems and 
economics; and
(ix) any other sectors or organizations the 
Secretary of Energy determines relevant for the 
purposes of this Act.
(3) Termination.--Notwithstanding section 1013 of title 5, 
United States Code, the Task Force shall terminate on the date 
that is 3 years after the date of enactment of this section.
(d) Lifecycle Impact and Costs of Energy Technologies.--
(1) Comprehensive analytical framework and dataset.--The 
Secretary of Energy shall develop and maintain a comprehensive 
analytical framework and dataset based on the methodology and 
guiding principles submitted to the Secretary of Energy by the 
Task Force under paragraph (3).
(2) Assessment of lifecycle impacts and costs.--
(A) Development and maintenance.--The Secretary of 
Energy shall use the comprehensive analytical framework 
and dataset developed and maintained under subsection 
(a) to prepare an assessment of the full lifecycle 
impacts and costs of producing and delivering energy 
services from each major energy resource or technology, 
including impacts and costs from upstream, operational, 
and downstream stages from extraction to end-use and 
waste management.
(B) Scope of assessment.--The assessment prepared 
under paragraph (1) shall include, for each major 
energy resource or technology, a complete 
quantification and characterization of the lifecycle 
impacts associated with producing and delivering energy 
services using the resource or technology, including, 
impacts from--
(i) energy inputs and losses, from 
extraction through end use and waste 
management, including embodied energy;
(ii) material use, including chemical use, 
and waste generation;
(iii) water use, including withdrawals, 
consumption, quality impacts, and other risks 
to water availability, quality, and ecosystem 
function;
(iv) pollution and emissions, including 
emissions of greenhouse gases and other air 
pollutants, water pollutants, and land 
disturbance; and
(v) indirect and direct costs to social, 
environmental, and economic well-being 
resulting from such impacts.
(C) Uses of assessment.--The Secretary of Energy 
shall use the assessment prepared under paragraph (1)--
(i) to develop strategic planning, 
investment prioritization, policies and 
programs, and regulatory analysis to limit the 
social, environmental, and economic costs of 
energy production and use;
(ii) to inform the allocation of grants and 
making loans and loan guarantees for Federal 
energy research, development, State and local 
programs, and demonstrations; and
(iii) as a resource for future reports and 
analyses of energy productivity, recognizing 
the link between resource impacts and social, 
economic, and environmental well-being.
(D) Updates and availability.--The Secretary of 
Energy shall--
(i) update the assessment at regular 
intervals, but not less frequently than once 
every 3 years;
(ii) make the results of the assessment 
publicly available in a transparent, machine-
readable format, including documentation of 
assumptions, data sources, and methodologies 
used; and
(iii) publish a report describing the 
lifecycle social, economic, and environmental 
impacts and costs of producing and delivering 
energy services from each major renewable or 
nonrenewable energy resource or technology.
(3) Task force methodology and guiding principles.--
(A) In general.--Not later than the date that is 12 
months after the date on which the Task Force is 
established, the Task Force shall submit to the 
Secretary of Energy a methodology and guiding 
principles for the analytical framework and dataset 
developed and maintained by the Secretary of Energy 
under paragraph (2), including definitions, the scope 
of the analytical framework and dataset, data sources, 
and procedures for periodic review, validation, and 
updates to such methodology and guiding principles.
(B) Reconvening task force for review, validation, 
and updates.--If the Secretary of Energy determines 
that the methodology and guiding principles submitted 
to the Secretary of Energy under subparagraph (A) are 
no longer suitable or otherwise require revision, 
including in response to new data, advances in 
analytical methods, or changes in statutory or 
regulatory requirements, the Secretary of Energy may 
reconvene the Task Force for the sole purpose of 
submitting to the Secretary of Energy an updated 
methodology and guiding principles by not later than 90 
days after the date on which the Task Force is 
reconvened. Any reconvened Task Force shall terminate 
on the earlier of the date on which it submits the 
updated methodology and guiding principles to the 
Secretary or the date that is 90 days after the date on 
which it is reconvened.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Energy productivity.--The term ``energy productivity'' 
means a measure of how efficiently an economy, region, or 
industry uses energy to generate economic value.
(2) Major energy resource or technology.--The term ``major 
energy resource or technology''--
(A) means an energy resource, carrier, or 
technology and any associated systems for producing, 
converting, storing, transmitting, or delivering energy 
services that contribute significantly to the national 
energy supply, demand, or infrastructure and materially 
affect energy system performance, emissions, or 
economic outcomes; and
(B) includes--
(i) fossil fuels (including coal, 
petroleum, and natural gas);
(ii) nuclear energy;
(iii) renewable energy (including solar, 
wind, geothermal, hydroelectric, marine, and 
biomass);
(iv) hydrogen and other chemical energy 
carriers and associated systems;
(v) energy storage technologies; and
(vi) any other energy resources, carriers, 
or technologies that the Secretary determines 
may materially affect the performance, 
emissions, resilience, reliability, or economic 
outcomes of the national energy system.

SEC. 605. GRID PERFORMANCE DISCLOSURE.

(a) Electricity Transmission Scorecard Elements and Verification.--
(1) Reporting requirements.--
(A) Covered transmission owner scorecards.--
(i) In general.--The Commission shall 
require each covered transmission owner to 
annually develop, publish, and submit to the 
Commission and the Secretary a report, to be 
known as a transmission owner scorecard, that 
includes metrics that are standardized as 
required under paragraph (2) and evaluate the 
following:
(I) Ratepayer affordability, which 
shall assess the cost of transmission 
services per unit of energy transmitted 
or other metrics that can be used to 
assess affordability of energy provided 
to ratepayers.
(II) Financing costs, which shall 
assess the financing structure and cost 
of capital for a covered transmission 
owner, and may include consideration of 
capital structure and leverage ratios, 
reliance on formula rates or other 
automatic adjustment mechanisms, 
allowed and earned returns on equity, 
the cost of debt and preferred stock, 
the presence and magnitude of incentive 
rate adders, and other related metrics.
(III) Investment prudency and cost 
recovery, which shall assess the 
prudency of capital investments and the 
transparency and structure of 
associated cost recovery mechanisms, 
and may include the frequency and 
magnitude of cost disallowances in rate 
proceedings, the types of facilities or 
investments associated with disallowed 
costs, the degree of cost recovery from 
ratepayers relative to shareholder 
contributions, and the transparency and 
accountability of cost allocation 
frameworks.
(IV) Investment effectiveness, 
which shall assess the value delivered 
by covered transmission owner 
investments relative to their costs, 
including how effectively the covered 
transmission owner considered and 
deployed the most economically 
efficient solutions to reduce cost 
burden on ratepayers and the accuracy 
of project cost estimates, and may 
include metrics such as benefit-cost 
ratios, investments in advanced 
technology deployment, non-wires 
alternatives, advanced transmission 
technologies, or other operational 
upgrades that avoid higher cost capital 
investment, estimated and actual cost 
for new or updated assets, and other 
indicators of prudent capital 
deployment.
(V) Capital expenditure tilt, which 
shall assess the covered transmission 
owner's balance of spending on capital 
investment versus operational and 
maintenance activities.
(VI) System reliability and 
availability, which shall assess the 
operational performance of the 
transmission facilities of the covered 
transmission owner over the reporting 
year, including information related to 
outages, equipment availability, and 
resilience to system disturbances, and 
may be expressed using existing 
transmission-specific reliability 
indicators, as described by the North 
American Electric Reliability 
Corporation or other entity established 
to oversee and administer reliability 
standards and procedures for the bulk-
power system, metrics regarding the 
economic costs of outages or lost 
reliability, or other related metrics.
(VII) Physical system performance, 
which shall assess how effectively the 
transmission facilities owned, 
operated, or controlled by the covered 
transmission owner are used to deliver 
electricity, including both physical 
and economic performance, and may 
include technical and non-technical 
losses, utilization relative to rated 
capacity and design constraints, age of 
system components, and other indicators 
of transmission system utilization, 
performance, and efficiency.
(VIII)(aa) Interconnection and 
access fairness, which shall assess the 
extent to which the interconnection 
process for interregional 
interconnections and new facilities 
(including generators, energy storage, 
load, and merchant transmission 
projects) is conducted in a timely and 
impartial manner consistent with 
Commission regulations, including 
comparisons between affiliated entities 
and unaffiliated entities, and may be 
expressed as the difference in the 
number of days from initial 
interconnection request to execution of 
an Interconnection Agreement, or 
through related measures of procedural 
equity.
(bb) For purposes of this 
subclause:

(AA) The term 
``affiliated entity'' 
means any entity that 
has a direct or 
indirect relationship 
with a covered 
transmission owner or 
its parent entity that 
could reasonably 
influence 
interconnection 
treatment, including an 
entity that shares 
common ownership or 
controlling interest 
with the covered 
transmission owner or 
its parent entity; is a 
direct or indirect 
subsidiary of the 
covered transmission 
owner or its parent 
entity; is engaged in a 
joint venture, 
contractual 
partnership, or 
strategic alliance with 
the covered 
transmission owner or 
its parent entity, 
where such partnership 
includes shared 
financial interest, 
revenue sharing, or 
asset co-development; 
or is otherwise 
determined by the 
Commission to have a 
financial, governance, 
or operational 
relationship that may 
reasonably be expected 
to influence 
interconnection 
prioritization.

(BB) The term 
``unaffiliated entity'' 
means any entity that 
has logged an 
interconnection request 
with the covered 
transmission owner and 
is not an affiliated 
entity.

(IX) Non-operational cost recovery, 
which shall assess the amount of 
covered transmission owner spending on 
lobbying, advertising, penalties, and 
advocacy activities recovered through 
customer rates, and may be expressed as 
a total sum of expenditures on such 
activities, or related metrics.
(X) Interregional and regional 
planning integration, which shall 
assess the extent to which the covered 
transmission owner participates in 
coordinated regional and interregional 
transmission planning processes and 
infrastructure development, and may be 
expressed as the number and capacity of 
interregional transmission ties, the 
share of projects subject to regional 
or interregional planning review, or 
related metrics.
(XI) Co-location and reuse of 
rights-of-way, which shall report the 
percentage of new circuit-miles placed 
in service that are--
(aa) sited within the 
existing corridor of linear 
infrastructure, including 
transmission, pipeline, rail, 
and highway infrastructure; and
(bb) reconductored or 
right-sized on existing 
structures.
(XII) Any additional matters that 
may be evaluated using outcome-based 
performance metrics the Commission 
determines necessary to improve 
transparency, affordability, 
reliability, equity, or environmental 
performance of the facilities owned, 
operated, or controlled by the covered 
transmission owner.
(ii) Exemptions.--The Commission may, by 
rule, exempt any category of covered 
transmission owners from the requirement to 
include a metric described in clause (i) if the 
Commission determines that the metric is 
inapplicable to the covered transmission owners 
in the category.
(iii) Coordination.--In preparing and 
developing a transmission owner scorecard 
pursuant to this subparagraph, a covered 
transmission owner shall coordinate, as 
necessary to obtain or estimate data required 
to be included in a scorecard under this 
subsection, with any relevant entity, 
including--
(I) regional grid operators, 
including Independent System Operators, 
Regional Transmission Organizations, 
transmission planning entities, and 
balancing authorities;
(II) interconnected electric 
utilities, including load serving 
entities and other transmission 
providers;
(III) owners of generation 
facilities, including utility-scale and 
merchant generators seeking 
interconnection or operating within the 
service territory of the covered 
transmission owner; and
(IV) regulatory and oversight 
entities, including State public 
utility commissions, and applicable 
Federal or State energy, reliability, 
or environmental agencies.
(B) Regional transmission scorecards.--The 
Commission shall require each Independent System 
Operator, Regional Transmission Organization, and 
transmission planning entity to annually develop, 
publish, and submit to the Commission and the Secretary 
a report, to be known as a regional transmission 
scorecard, that uses metrics that are standardized as 
required under paragraph (2) and includes the 
following:
(i) Aggregation of the metrics reported for 
the year in the transmission owner scorecards 
of the covered transmission owners within the 
jurisdiction of the applicable ISO, RTO, or 
transmission planning entity, which shall 
consist of a summary of such metrics that--
(I) reflects weighted or capacity-
adjusted averages of covered 
transmission owner-reported metrics, as 
appropriate; and
(II) highlights significant intra-
regional variation or performance 
outliers.
(ii) Regional-specific metrics, which shall 
consist of reporting on metrics specific to 
operational responsibilities of the ISO, RTO, 
or transmission planning entity, including the 
following:
(I) Market efficiency, which shall 
assess the extent to which the ISO, 
RTO, or transmission planning entity is 
successful in operating efficient 
wholesale electricity markets, 
minimizing system congestion, and 
maximizing the use of existing grid 
infrastructure to deliver cost-
effective outcomes for consumers, and 
may be expressed as average energy and 
ancillary service costs (system-wide 
and by major zone), system and zonal 
capacity costs where applicable, 
congestion costs, out-of-market 
payments, frequency of redispatch, 
implementation of congestion-relieving 
technologies, or related metrics.
(II) Regional interconnection 
performance, which shall assess the 
effectiveness and efficiency of 
interconnection processes, and may 
include metrics that measure the 
duration of queue processing, the rate 
of project withdrawals, and the share 
of projects that successfully reach 
commercial operation, or related 
metrics.
(III) Regional and interregional 
development, which shall assess the 
extent and effectiveness of regional 
and interregional transmission planning 
and buildout, and may be expressed in 
relation to the number and total 
capacity of transmission lines 
developed through regional and 
interregional planning processes, the 
proportion of new transmission projects 
selected through regional planning 
processes versus those advanced outside 
of such processes (including local or 
supplemental projects), the number of 
projects selected through competitive 
processes, the use and outcomes of 
benefit-cost analysis in project 
selection and development, the 
frequency of stakeholder engagement, 
the ratio of total investment in 
interregional and regional transmission 
to investment in local transmission, or 
other related metrics.
(IV) Greenhouse gas emissions 
intensity, which shall assess the 
emissions profile of electricity 
delivered within the service territory 
of the ISO, RTO, or transmission 
planning entity in the reporting year, 
and may be expressed as the emissions 
intensity of delivered electricity in 
carbon dioxide equivalents per 
megawatt-hour, or related metrics.
(V) Any additional outcome-based 
performance metrics the Commission 
determines necessary to improve 
transparency, affordability, 
reliability, equity, or environmental 
performance of the transmission system 
overseen by the RTO, ISO, or 
transmission planning entity.
(C) Data disclosure.--Each reporting entity shall 
publish and submit to the Secretary, with each 
scorecard published under this paragraph, all non-
confidential underlying data supporting the metrics 
included in the scorecard, in a machine-readable, open-
data format.
(D) Initial reporting.--Each reporting entity shall 
publish and submit to the Secretary its first annual 
scorecard not later than 2 years after the date of 
enactment of this Act.
(2) Metric and methodology standardization.--Not later than 
1 year after the date of enactment of this Act, the Commission, 
with input from the Secretary, the Administrator, the National 
Laboratories, and other stakeholders shall issue guidance that, 
where appropriate, standardizes the metrics required to be 
included in a scorecard under paragraph (1) and the 
methodologies for calculating such metrics.
(3) Verification requirements.--
(A) In general.--The Commission shall establish a 
process by which scorecards required to be developed 
under paragraph (1) are verified by independent 
evaluators to ensure accuracy, consistency, and 
credibility prior to publication under such paragraph. 
The Commission shall include in such process--
(i) requirements for the approval by the 
Commission of independent evaluators, including 
requirements that an independent evaluator--
(I) possess demonstrated expertise 
in electric transmission planning, data 
validation, engineering analysis, or 
grid performance evaluation; and
(II) be independent from the entity 
being verified and have no financial, 
contractual, or governance conflicts of 
interest;
(ii) procedures for auditing the 
assumptions and methodologies used in applying 
performance metrics, including to detect 
selective reporting and ensure alignment with 
Commission-defined protocols;
(iii) requirements to ensure that no single 
independent evaluator, or their parent company 
or subsidiary, may evaluate a reporting entity 
more than 4 years in a row, and not more than 7 
times in any 10-year period;
(iv) requirements under which an 
independent evaluator approved by the 
Commission may verify the information in the 
scorecard of the reporting entity, by reviewing 
supporting documentation, conducting project 
inspections, and applying standardized 
evaluation, measurement, and verification 
protocols for the metrics included in the 
scorecard;
(v) requirements for public disclosure of 
the results of such verification, including any 
adjustments to reported values, methodologies 
used in the verification process, and 
justifications for material discrepancies; and
(vi) a process for reviewing and refining 
verification protocols at regular intervals, in 
consultation with any relevant stakeholder 
advisory group convened under subsection (c), 
to incorporate advances in data analytics, 
energy system modeling, and grid performance 
assessment.
(B) Role of national laboratories.--In carrying out 
this paragraph, the Commission shall--
(i) collaborate with National Laboratories 
that have the necessary expertise, in 
coordination with the Secretary, to design and 
publish standardized verification protocols, 
including templates, analytical tools, and 
calibration datasets;
(ii) utilize the technical expertise of 
National Laboratories to assist in the 
training, evaluation, or approval of 
independent evaluators;
(iii) engage National Laboratories in 
conducting selective audits or quality 
assurance reviews of verified scorecards during 
initial implementation of the scorecard 
reporting and verification process and 
implementation of any subsequent updates to 
such scorecards; and
(iv) consult National Laboratories during 
periodic updates to the verification process, 
in coordination with any relevant stakeholder 
advisory group convened under subsection (c).
(4) Independent audits.--
(A) In general.--The Commission, in consultation 
with the Secretary, shall designate National 
Laboratories with necessary expertise, or other 
qualified institutions, to conduct independent audits 
of scorecards published under paragraph (1) on a 
periodic or as-needed basis to ensure the accuracy, 
completeness, and integrity of reported data, 
methodologies, and performance metrics.
(B) Initiation.--An audit under this paragraph may 
be initiated--
(i) at the discretion of the Secretary;
(ii) upon identification of material 
discrepancies in reported metrics;
(iii) in response to concerns raised by a 
stakeholder advisory group convened under 
subsection (c); or
(iv) as part of a randomized, rotating 
sample of reporting entities to support 
continuous oversight.
(C) Results.--The results of an audit conducted 
under this paragraph shall be made publicly available 
not later than 2 months after completion of the audit.
(5) Rulemaking.--
(A) In general.--Not later than 1 year after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Commission shall 
issue a final rule to carry out this subsection.
(B) Department of energy support.--Upon request by 
the Commission, the Secretary shall provide technical 
assistance, subject-matter expertise, and access to 
relevant data and tools to the Commission in developing 
the rule required to be published under this paragraph.
(C) Inclusions.--The Commission shall include in 
the rule issued under this paragraph--
(i) requirements to ensure timely and 
consistent reporting, which may include 
requirements for data-sharing agreements, 
protocols for data access, and other mechanisms 
as necessary to facilitate the completion of 
scorecards;
(ii) allowance for the use of reasonable 
proxies, estimates, or approximations based on 
best available data and transparent 
methodologies where direct data is unavailable; 
and
(iii) requirements that all reported 
metrics reflect a good-faith effort to provide 
reasonably accurate representations of 
transmission facility and system performance, 
subject to Commission review and oversight.
(D) Revisions.--In issuing any revisions to the 
rule under this subsection, the Commission shall ensure 
that--
(i) such revisions are based on the 
outcomes of any applicable technical conference 
held under subsection (c);
(ii) the period for public comment on such 
revisions is not less than 90 days; and
(iii) the final rulemaking such revisions 
is issued not later than 180 days after the 
close of such period for public comment.
(6) Enforcement.--With respect to any Independent System 
Operator, Regional Transmission Organization, or covered 
transmission owner subject to the requirements of part II of 
the Federal Power Act that is required to publish a scorecard 
under paragraph (1), a violation of a requirement of this 
subsection shall be considered a violation of a provision of 
such part II for purposes of section 316A of such Act (16 
U.S.C. 825o-1).
(7) Report.--The Secretary shall annually publish a report 
that compiles and analyzes scorecards submitted to the 
Secretary under paragraph (1) and, for each metric--
(A) ranks the performance of reporting entities, 
grouped by market type and governance structure; and
(B) explains the metric and describes any changes 
over time in the affordability, reliability, equity, or 
environmental performance of the transmission system, 
as evidenced by changes in the information included by 
reporting entities in such scorecards with respect to 
the metric.
(8) Scorecard review.--Not later than 3 years after the 
date of enactment of this Act, and every 3 years thereafter, 
the Secretary, in coordination with the Commission shall 
conduct a comprehensive review of the implementation of this 
subsection, including the administration of the subsection, 
data collection and coordination, reporting entity compliance, 
stakeholder engagement, and the effectiveness of the 
information included in scorecards as a policy tool and issue a 
public report that includes--
(A) an assessment and comparison of the annual 
changes in utility performance regarding the metrics 
required to be included in the scorecards;
(B) evaluation of data quality, availability, 
methodologies, and verification practices relevant to 
the scorecards; and
(C) findings and recommendations regarding the 
scorecards provided by the technical conferences held 
and stakeholder advisory group convened under 
subsection (c).
(b) Accessibility and Public Transparency.--
(1) Establishment of public-facing scorecard portal.--
(A) Initiation.--Not later than 12 months after the 
date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary, in 
collaboration with the Commission and the 
Administrator, shall initiate the establishment of a 
public, searchable online portal housing scorecards and 
underlying data submitted to the Secretary under this 
Act.
(B) Portal availability.--Not later than 27 months 
after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary 
shall establish and make available a public, searchable 
online portal housing scorecards and underlying data 
submitted to the Secretary under this Act.
(2) Inclusion in portal.--The Secretary shall make public 
through the searchable online portal established under this 
subsection each scorecard, together with the underlying data 
associated with each scorecard, that is submitted to the 
Secretary under this Act.
(c) Scorecard Improvement.--
(1) Technical conferences.--The Commission shall hold 
public technical conferences not less often than once every 3 
years to solicit stakeholder feedback on--
(A) the effectiveness of scorecard metrics in 
conveying the performance of a given reporting entity;
(B) the sufficiency and quality of the data 
disclosed in scorecards;
(C) the alignment of scorecards with Federal and 
State priorities, including affordability and 
reliability of transmitted electricity; and
(D) opportunities to refine metrics in light of 
emerging technologies, grid conditions, and energy 
markets.
(2) Stakeholder advisory groups.--For purposes of a 
rulemaking under subsection (a) and each technical conference 
held under paragraph (1), the Commission shall convene a 
stakeholder advisory group to provide advice to the Commission. 
Each such stakeholder advisory group shall be composed of 17 
members, as follows:
(A) 2 members representing State public utility 
commissions.
(B) 2 members representing covered transmission 
owners.
(C) 1 member representing independent power 
producers.
(D) 2 members representing Regional Transmission 
Organizations.
(E) 2 members representing Independent System 
Operators.
(F) 2 members representing transmission planning 
entities that are not Regional Transmission 
Organizations or Independent System Operators.
(G) 2 members representing ratepayer advocacy 
organizations.
(H) 2 members with expertise in energy data and 
grid analytics.
(I) 2 members with expertise in energy systems 
performance, representing academic or research 
institutions, including the National Laboratories.
(3) Response required.--Not later than 60 days after 
receiving any advice from a stakeholder group convened under 
paragraph (2), the Commission shall respond in writing to such 
advice.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Administrator.--The term ``Administrator'' means the 
Administrator of the Energy Information Administration of the 
Department of Energy.
(2) Advanced transmission technology.--The term ``advanced 
transmission technology'' means any hardware or software that--
(A) increases the capacity, efficiency, 
reliability, resilience, or safety of transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies;
(B) is installed in addition to new or existing 
transmission facilities and transmission technologies--
(i) to give operators of the transmission 
facilities and transmission technologies more 
situational awareness and control over the 
electric grid;
(ii) to make the transmission facilities 
and transmission technologies more efficient; 
or
(iii) to increase the transfer capacity of 
the transmission facilities and transmission 
technologies; and
(C) includes, but is not limited to, dynamic line 
ratings, advanced conductors, topology optimization, 
advanced power-flow controls, and other digital or 
physical systems that increase the usable transfer 
capability of the grid.
(3) Bulk-power system.--The term ``bulk-power system'' has 
the meaning given that term in section 215 of the Federal Power 
Act (16 U.S.C. 824o).
(4) Commission.--The term ``Commission'' means the Federal 
Energy Regulatory Commission.
(5) Covered transmission owner.--The term ``covered 
transmission owner'' means any entity, other than an 
Independent System Operator, Regional Transmission 
Organization, or transmission planning entity, that--
(A) owns, operates, or controls transmission 
facilities that are part of, or connected to, the bulk-
power system;
(B) provides, or is capable of providing, 
transmission service for the movement of electric 
energy, whether in interstate or intrastate commerce; 
and
(C) if the entity owns, operates, or controls 
transmission facilities that are not part of, or 
connected to, the bulk-power system, the total 
transmission capacity under peak demand conditions of 
all transmission facilities owned, operated, or 
controlled by the entity is 100 megawatts or greater.
(6) Independent system operator; iso; regional transmission 
organization; rto; transmitting utility.--The terms 
``Independent System Operator'', ``ISO'', ``Regional 
Transmission Organization'', ``RTO'', and ``transmitting 
utility'' have the meanings given those terms in section 3 of 
the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 796).
(7) Interregional interconnection.--The term 
``interregional interconnection'' means a transmission facility 
or interconnection project that enables the transfer of 
electric energy between 2 or more transmission planning 
regions, including connections between any of the Western 
Interconnection, the Eastern Interconnection, and the Electric 
Reliability Council of Texas.
(8) Reporting entity.--The term ``reporting entity'' means 
an entity required to submit a scorecard under this Act.
(9) Scorecard.--The term ``scorecard'' means an annual 
report required to be submitted by a covered transmission 
owner, Independent System Operator, Regional Transmission 
Organization, or transmission planning entity pursuant to 
subsection (a).
(10) Secretary.--The term ``Secretary'' means the Secretary 
of Energy.
(11) Transmission planning entity.--The term ``transmission 
planning entity'' means an entity, other than a RTO or an ISO, 
that is responsible for planning for the deployment of electric 
transmission for a transmission planning region.
(12) Transmission planning region.--The term ``transmission 
planning region'' means a geographic area determined by the 
Commission to satisfy the requirements for the scope of 
regional transmission planning, as established in or in 
compliance with the following orders issued by the Commission:
(A) ``Transmission Planning and Cost Allocation by 
Transmission Owning and Operating Public Utilities'' 
published in the Federal Register on October 24, 2012 
(77 Fed. Reg. 64890).
(B) ``Building for the Future Through Electric 
Regional Transmission Planning and Cost Allocation'' 
published in the Federal Register on June 11, 2024 (89 
Fed. Reg. 49280).

TITLE VII--COLLABORATING WITH COMMUNITIES FOR SUCCESSFUL DEPLOYMENT

SEC. 701. FEDERAL PERMITTING CAPACITY.

(a) In General.--To the maximum extent practicable, the head of 
each agency listed under section 41002(b)(2)(B) of the FAST Act (42 
U.S.C. 4370m-1(b)(2)(B)), including the head of any agency invited 
pursuant to clause (xiv) of such subparagraph (B), shall maintain 
adequate personnel capacity and expertise to process authorizations and 
environmental documents for projects in a timely manner, including in 
compliance with sections 107(g) and 112(a)(4) of the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336a(g) and 4336f(a)(4)).
(b) Assessment.--Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment 
of this section, the head of each agency described in subsection (a) 
shall submit to the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, the 
Committee on Natural Resources, and the Environment and Public Works 
Committee a report on the personnel capacity of the agency to process 
authorizations and environmental documents for projects in a timely 
manner, which shall include--
(1) the number of employees--broken down by field office--
responsible for processing such authorizations and 
environmental documents as of the date on which the report is 
submitted;
(2) the number of employees--broken down by field office--
responsible for processing such authorizations and 
environmental documents as of January 1, 2025;
(3) the number of employees--broken down by field office--
necessary for the agency to complete environmental documents in 
compliance with sections 107(g) and 112(a)(4) of the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336a(g) and 
4336f(a)(4));
(4) the capacity of the agency--broken down by field 
office--to engage with communities affected by projects when 
preparing environmental documents, including dedicated Tribal 
consultation capacity, language access services, and designated 
community engagement personnel as described in section 706;
(5) the adequacy of the training available to employees 
related to processing such authorizations and environmental 
documents; and
(6) a finding by the agency whether there are a sufficient 
number of employees of the agency to comply with sections 
107(g) and 112(a)(4) of the National Environmental Policy Act 
of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336a(g) and 4336f(a)(4)) and engage with 
communities.
(c) Implementation Plan.--Upon receipt of the report, if an agency 
finds under subsection (b)(5) that there are an insufficient number of 
employees--broken down by field office--of the agency to comply with 
sections 107(g) and 112(a)(4) of the National Environmental Policy Act 
of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336a(g) and 4336f(a)(4)) and engage with 
communities, or insufficient training opportunities available, the 
Director of the Office of Personnel Management shall develop and 
execute a plan to increase personnel capacity and expertise at the 
agency.
(d) Direct Hire Authority.--
(1) In general.--Notwithstanding section 3304 of title 5, 
United States Code, and without regard to the provisions of 
sections 3309 through 3318 of such title 5, if the head of an 
agency described in subsection (a) issues or renews a 
certification that there is a severe shortage of candidates or 
a critical hiring need for covered positions to carry out the 
responsibilities and activities of the agency with respect to 
processing authorizations and environmental documents for 
infrastructure projects in a timely manner, the agency head 
may, subject to paragraphs (2) and (3), recruit and directly 
appoint highly qualified individuals into the competitive 
service.
(2) Limitation.--The recruiting and appointment of highly 
qualified individuals under paragraph (1) shall be consistent 
with the merit principles of section 2301 of title 5, United 
States Code, and the agency shall comply with the public notice 
requirements of section 3327 of such title 5.
(3) Termination.--A certification issued or renewed under 
this subsection shall terminate on the earlier of--
(A) the date that is 5 years after the 
certification is issued or renewed; or
(B) the date on which the agency head determines 
that there is no longer a severe shortage of candidates 
or a critical hiring need for covered positions to 
carry out the responsibilities and activities of the 
agency related to permitting.
(e) Authorization of Appropriations.--In addition to amounts 
otherwise available, there is authorized to be appropriated such sums 
as is necessary to conduct more efficient, accurate, and timely reviews 
for planning, permitting and approval processes through the hiring and 
training of personnel, and the purchase of technical and scientific 
services and new equipment, and to improve agency transparency, 
accountability, and public engagement.
(f) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Authorization.--The term ``authorization'' means any 
license, permit, approval, finding, determination, or other 
administrative decision issued by an agency and any interagency 
consultation that is required or authorized under Federal law 
in order to site, construct, reconstruct, or commence 
operations of an infrastructure project.
(2) Covered position.--The term ``covered position'' means 
a position in which an employee is responsible for conducting 
work of a scientific, technical, engineering, mathematical, 
legal, or otherwise highly specialized or skilled nature 
related to processing authorizations and environmental 
documents for infrastructure projects in a timely manner.
(3) Environmental document.--The term ``environmental 
document'' has the meaning given such term in section 111 of 
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
4336e).

SEC. 702. INTERAGENCY ENVIRONMENTAL DATA SYSTEM.

(a) Establishment of Data Standards.--
(1) In general.--Not later than 60 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Chair of the Council on 
Environmental Quality, in consultation with the Federal 
Permitting Improvement Steering Council, the Chief Information 
Officers Council, the Office of Management and Budget, and 
other relevant stakeholders and Federal agencies, shall 
develop, publish, and iteratively update data standards for the 
collection and curation of authorization data by Federal 
agencies, which shall be used to--
(A) assist with environmental reviews and 
authorizations;
(B) organize, define, and standardize various 
concepts, formats, and protocols that are included in 
environmental reviews and authorizations; and
(C) reduce the need for redundant environmental 
reviews by creating a shared vocabulary and software 
systems that will support vendor neutrality, data 
interoperability, workflow automation, and automatic 
data exchange between Federal agencies.
(2) Inclusions.--The data standards developed, published, 
and iteratively updated under paragraph (1) shall include the 
following:
(A) A standardized taxonomy that allows Federal 
agencies to identify and track data types, 
relationships, and values.
(B) Comprehensive categories for data, such as--
(i) projects;
(ii) processes;
(iii) environmental documents;
(iv) public comments;
(v) geospatial information;
(vi) public engagement events, as 
applicable by process or Federal agency;
(vii) case events; and
(viii) milestones to ensure clarity and 
uniformity.
(b) Development of Prototype Tools.--The Chair of the Council on 
Environmental Quality, in consultation with the Administrator of 
General Services, the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council, 
the Chief Information Officers Council, the Director of the Office of 
Management and Budget, and other relevant stakeholders and Federal 
agencies, shall design, test, and build prototype tools for 
environmental reviews and authorizations that will assist Federal 
agencies in implementing the minimum functional requirements described 
in subsection (c). The Chair of the Council on Environmental Quality 
shall prioritize designing, testing, and building tools under this 
subsection that--
(1) support authorization case or project management 
systems that manage tasks, milestones, and activities 
associated with environmental reviews and authorizations, and 
provide Federal agencies more data and insight into such 
reviews and authorizations;
(2) enable--
(A) application submission and tracking portals 
used by project sponsors, enabling greater 
transparency; and
(B) public comment opportunity tracking portals to 
increase transparency;
(3) facilitate automated applications, environmental 
reviews, and authorizations;
(4) allow data exchange between Federal agency systems; and
(5) accelerate complex environmental reviews.
(c) Publication of Guidance for Implementation of Data Standards 
and Minimum Functional Requirements.--
(1) Publication.--Not later than 120 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, the Chair of the Council on 
Environmental Quality shall publish guidance for how each 
Federal agency responsible for environmental reviews or 
authorizations implements--
(A) the data standards published under subsection 
(a); and
(B) the following minimum functional requirements:
(i) Application data sharing that enables 
automated transfer of relevant environmental 
review and authorization data among Federal 
agencies.
(ii) Automated project screening to assist 
frontline staff with reviewing project sponsor 
provided information for completeness and 
accuracy and determining if a categorical 
exclusion or other general authorization 
applies to an action. Automated project 
screening may not be used by the Council on 
Environmental Quality or a Federal agency to 
unlawfully restrict any activities on Federal 
lands.
(iii) Public availability of screening 
criteria and related decision models.
(iv) Automated case or project management 
tools which include a repository of relevant 
data and metadata that enable advanced 
tracking, reporting, and optimization to aid 
workflows.
(v) Integrated geographic information 
system analysis tools which incorporate 
geospatial data layers and models for each 
resource analyzed as part of an environmental 
review or authorization for a given study area.
(vi) Document management tools that 
preserve metadata associated with geospatial 
analysis, modeling, and other analytic 
processes conducted during an environmental 
review or authorization, to support future 
reviews and enable Artificial Intelligence-
assisted analysis of past decisions.
(vii) Automated comment compilation and 
analysis tools, including services for comment 
categorization and response that handle the 
lifecycle of comment submission, analysis, 
categorization and response with Artificial 
Intelligence support where appropriate.
(viii) Administrative record management 
tools that maintain both portable document 
formats and data-rich repositories accessible 
to both machine and human users.
(ix) Common or interoperable Federal agency 
services that integrate shared services, shared 
applications, and common user experiences for 
Federal agency staff, project sponsors, and the 
public.
(2) Inclusions.--The guidance published under this 
subsection shall include the following:
(A) Guidelines for cloud-based storage, data 
sharing protocols, and application programming 
interfaces to enable the Council on Environmental 
Quality to work with Federal agencies to use 
authorization data to aid Federal agencies in 
modernizing their environmental reviews and 
authorizations and for iterative development of the 
authorization portal.
(B) Provisions that support scalability and 
adaptability of the minimum requirements to emerging 
technologies.
(d) Implementation of Data Standards and Minimum Functional 
Requirements.--
(1) Implementation.--The head of each Federal agency 
responsible for environmental reviews or authorizations shall--
(A) not later than 90 days after the date of 
enactment of this section--
(i) compare existing Federal agency systems 
for environmental reviews and authorizations 
under their authority with the data standards 
published under subsection (a) and the minimum 
functional requirements described in subsection 
(c)(1)(B) and report findings from such 
comparison to the Council on Environmental 
Quality;
(ii) assess whether existing Federal agency 
technological capabilities are consistent with 
the data standards published under subsection 
(a) and the minimum functional requirements 
described in subsection (c)(1)(B);
(iii) submit to the Council on 
Environmental Quality a report that estimates 
the completion dates for implementing the data 
standards published under subsection (a) and 
the minimum functional requirements described 
in subsection (c)(1)(B); and
(iv) submit to the Council on Environmental 
Quality, in consultation with the Council on 
Environmental Quality, an implementation plan 
that--
(I) describes how the Federal 
agency will implement the data 
standards published under subsection 
(a) and the minimum functional 
requirements described in subsection 
(c)(1)(B); and
(II) describes how, to the extent 
the Federal agency determines necessary 
to meet relevant statutory 
requirements, the Federal agency will 
adopt or implement the prototype tools 
tested, designed, and built under 
subsection (b); and
(B) not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this section, begin implementing the data 
standards published under subsection (a) and the 
minimum functional requirements described in subsection 
(c)(1)(B).
(2) Report.--Not less frequently than twice each year, the 
Chief Information Officer of each Federal agency, in 
consultation with the Chief Environmental Review and Permitting 
Officer of each Federal agency, shall submit to the Council on 
Environmental Quality and the Director of the Office of 
Management and Budget a report on the progress of the Federal 
agency towards meeting the requirements of paragraph (1).
(e) Unified Interagency Data System.--
(1) In general.--
(A) Unified interagency data system.--To the 
maximum extent practicable, the Chair of the Council of 
Environmental Quality and the head of each Federal 
agency responsible for environmental reviews or 
authorizations shall iteratively develop and maintain a 
unified interagency data system consisting of 
interconnected Federal agency systems and shared 
services for environmental reviews and authorizations.
(B) Authorization portal.--
(i) In general.--The shared services 
developed and maintained under subparagraph (A) 
shall include a common interactive, digital, 
cloud-based authorization portal, which shall--
(I) be designed in a manner 
consistent with--
(aa) the recommendations of 
the Council on Environmental 
Quality included in the study 
submitted pursuant to section 
110 of the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 
1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336d) entitled 
``Council on Environmental 
Quality Report to Congress on 
the Potential for Online and 
Digital Technologies to Address 
Delays in Reviews and Improve 
Public Accessibility and 
Transparency under 42 U.S.C. 
4332(2)(C)''; and
(bb) the minimum functional 
requirements described in 
subsection (c)(1)(B);
(II) serve as a platform for 
tracking and displaying real-time data 
on environmental reviews and 
authorizations made available through 
application programming interfaces or 
other reporting mechanisms from Federal 
agency systems that are compliant with 
the data standards and data 
architecture described in this section;
(III) be supported by a 
decentralized, cross-network digital 
infrastructure software that ensures 
vendor neutrality and interoperability 
of data and models across Federal 
agencies;
(IV) include a mechanism for the 
dissemination of relevant information 
(such as a notice of intent for public 
comment, public meetings, project 
statuses, or a notice of intent to 
begin an environmental review) to local 
communities, as applicable;
(V) allow a project sponsor to 
submit all necessary documentation for 
environmental reviews and 
authorizations in 1 unified and secure 
portal;
(VI) support interactive, digital, 
and cloud-based tools enabling 
applicants to edit documents and 
collaborate with relevant Federal 
agencies in real time;
(VII) support visual features, 
including video, animation, geographic 
information system displays, 
interactive maps, and three-dimensional 
renderings;
(VIII) provide for the exchange of 
information to and from Federal agency 
data systems via an application 
programming interface or another 
reporting mechanisms;
(IX) allow for the submission of 
geospatial data associated with project 
location, footprint, and impact;
(X) support automatic documentation 
of submission and process timelines; 
and
(XI) allow the following metrics to 
be tracked over time--
(aa) estimates of achieved 
efficiencies, such as 
reductions in the time between 
receipt of applications and 
final authorization decisions;
(bb) comparisons of 
authorization timelines before 
and after the implementation of 
this section;
(cc) usage of the 
authorization portal and other 
statistics from the Digital 
Analytics Program;
(dd) metrics on the number 
of public comments received, 
responses provided, and 
community meetings held;
(ee) the number of projects 
subject to litigation based on 
authorization deficiencies or 
inefficiencies;
(ff) a list of Federal 
agencies that are not yet fully 
compliant with the data 
standards published under 
subsection (a) and the minimum 
functional requirements 
described in subsection 
(c)(1)(B), along with their 
progress toward compliance; and
(gg) examples or 
repositories of Federal agency-
developed digital workflows 
enabled by the implementation 
of this section, including 
visualizations of data sharing, 
authorizations and decision 
logic, and environmental 
reviews.
(ii) Administrative support.--The 
Administrator of General Services shall host 
the authorization portal as a shared service 
for Congress, Federal agencies, and the public.
(iii) Accessability.--The authorization 
portal shall be accessible to Congress, Federal 
agencies, and the public, with appropriate 
safeguards to protect sensitive or classified 
information and information restricted by user 
type as appropriate.
(iv) Public accessibility.--To the extent 
practicable and consistent with other law, the 
authorization portal shall provide public 
access to non-sensitive data, including 
authorization timelines, location, project 
type, environmental reviews, and mitigation 
measures.
(v) Congressional access and oversight.--
(I) In general.--The authorization 
portal shall provide Congress with 
direct access to aggregated performance 
data and other analytics to enable 
real-time oversight of Federal 
agencies.
(II) Artificial intelligence 
support systems and training 
materials.--Congress shall have access 
to the data, fine-tuning procedures, 
and prompt configurations specifically 
created or adapted for Artificial 
Intelligence systems used to support 
environmental review or authorization 
activities, excluding proprietary or 
general pretraining materials unrelated 
to such agency-specific customization.
(III) Technical assistance.--The 
Council on Environmental Quality shall 
provide to Congress technical 
assistance upon request to ensure 
effective use of the authorization 
portal and Artificial Intelligence 
systems for oversight purposes.
(C) Cybersecurity and compliance considerations.--
The authorization portal shall be designed to promote 
vendor neutral interoperability, reduce redundancy, and 
ensure compliance and coordination with other laws, 
including--
(i) section 552a of title 5, United States 
Code (commonly referred to as the Privacy Act 
of 1974), and subchapter II of chapter 35 of 
title 44, United States Code;
(ii) the Federal Risk and Authorization 
Management Program established under section 
3608 of title 44, United States Code; and
(iii) the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure 
Security Agency of the Department of Homeland 
Security, for a case in which the project is in 
coordination with a Federal agency with 
stringent security requirements.
(2) Deadlines.--
(A) Shared services pilot.--Not later than 1 year 
after the date of enactment of this section, the 
Council on Environmental Quality shall oversee piloting 
of shared services for environmental reviews and 
authorizations, including the authorization portal 
under paragraph (1)(B).
(B) Unified system development and 
implementation.--To the maximum extent practicable, not 
later than December 1, 2027, the Chair of the Council 
on Environmental Quality shall develop and implement 
the unified interagency data system required under 
paragraph (1)(A).
(3) Report.--Not less frequently than annually, the Chair 
of the Council on Environmental Quality, in consultation with 
the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council, the Chief 
Information Officers Council, and other relevant stakeholders 
and Federal agencies, shall submit to the Committee on Natural 
Resources of the House of Representatives and the Committee on 
Environment and Public Works of the Senate a report on the 
Council on Environmental Quality's progress on developing a 
unified interagency data system under paragraph (1).
(f) Authority To Enter Into Contracts.--Subject to the availability 
of appropriations, the Council on Environmental Quality may enter into 
contracts and other arrangements for analyses, services, and products 
with Federal agencies, private organizations, and businesses, and make 
such payments as determined necessary by the Council on Environmental 
Quality to carry out the provisions of this section.
(g) Clarifying Rulemaking Authority.--Nothing in this section shall 
be construed to authorize the Council on Environmental Quality or a 
Federal agency to impose additional regulatory processes or 
requirements beyond those expressly stipulated under the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) or any other 
law.
(h) Savings Clause.--To the extent that a data system, technology, 
or tool developed or incorporated into a unified interagency data 
system under this section is not limited by project type, the data 
system, technology, or tool shall not have its use be restricted by 
project type.
(i) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Authorization.--The term ``authorization'' means any 
license, permit, approval, finding, determination, or other 
administrative decision issued by an agency and any interagency 
consultation that is required or authorized under Federal law 
in order to site, construct, reconstruct, or commence 
operations of a project administered by a Federal agency.
(2) Authorization data.--The term ``authorization data'' 
means--
(A) any data relevant for a Federal agency to--
(i) determine the effect on the environment 
of an action for which an authorization is 
required by the Federal agency; and
(ii) determine whether to issue such 
authorization; and
(B) any community input or public comment on such 
determinations.
(3) Data architecture.--The term ``data architecture'' 
means the design and organization of data systems, including 
frameworks for data storage, processing, and exchange.
(4) Data standards.--The term ``data standards'' means 
agreed-upon specifications for data formats, structures, and 
definitions to ensure consistency and vendor neutral 
interoperability.
(5) Environmental review.--The term ``environmental 
review'' means any Federal agency procedures or processes for--
(A) applying a categorical exclusion; or
(B) preparing an environmental assessment, an 
environmental impact statement, or another document 
required under the National Environmental Policy Act of 
1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.).
(6) Federal agency.--The term ``Federal agency'' has the 
meaning given the term ``agency'' in section 551 of title 5, 
United States Code.
(7) Federal permitting improvement steering council.--The 
term ``Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council'' has 
the meaning given the term ``Council'' in section 41001 of the 
FAST Act (42 U.S.C. 4370m).

SEC. 703. TIMELY PUBLIC RELEASE OF NEPA DOCUMENTATION.

(a) In General.--To achieve the goals described in section 1507.4 
of title 40, Code of Federal Regulations (or a successor regulation), 
to allow agencies and the public to efficiently and effectively access 
timely information relating to environmental reviews required under the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.), the 
lead agency for a proposed major Federal action shall make the 
documents identified under subsection (b) with respect to such proposed 
major Federal action available to the public in a searchable, digital 
format when such documents are completed by the lead agency, or in the 
case of final documents, finalized by the agency. The lead agency shall 
make such documents available to the public in a searchable, digital 
format by--
(1) publishing and maintaining such documents on the public 
website or websites of the applicable agency or agencies; and
(2) uploading such documents to the E-NEPA online 
permitting portal established under subsection (b) of section 
110 of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (as added 
by section 702(b) of this Act).
(b) Documents.--The documents identified under this subsection are 
the following:
(1) Any notice of intent and other scoping notices.
(2) Any draft and final environmental assessments and 
findings of no significant impacts.
(3) Any draft, final, and supplemental environmental impact 
statements.
(4) Any records of decision.
(5) Any documentation associated with a determination to 
proceed with the proposed major Federal action under a 
categorical exclusion.
(6) Any additional related documentation.
(c) Timing.--The lead agency shall make the documents identified 
under subsection (b) available to the public in a searchable, digital 
format under subsection (a) by not later than the earlier of--
(1) 3 days after the date on which the lead agency 
completes the document; and
(2) 3 days after the date on the document is published in 
the Federal Register.
(d) Cooperating Agencies.--A cooperating agency shall publish a 
link to the location on the website of the lead agency to the documents 
identified under subsection (b) on which the agency was a cooperating 
agency.

SEC. 704. COMMUNITY BENEFITS AGREEMENTS.

(a) Prioritization in NEPA.--If a project sponsor has entered into 
a community benefits agreement described in subsection (b) with respect 
to an eligible project, the applicable lead agency shall prioritize the 
completion of the required environmental documents for the eligible 
project.
(b) Community Benefits Agreement (CBA).--A project sponsor and a 
CBA partner may enter into an agreement that--
(1) relates to an eligible project for which an 
authorization is sought;
(2) may include the disbursement of funds, including 
commitments, for social, economic, or environmental benefits 
that will--
(A) ensure benefits from the construction, 
modification, and operation of the eligible project are 
shared with nearby residents;
(B) offset adverse impacts resulting from such 
construction, modification, or operation; or
(C) address legacy or historical harm or adverse 
cumulative social, economic, or environmental impacts 
in the location in which the eligible project is to be 
carried out;
(3) includes commitments by a project sponsor to hire 
members of the local workforce during construction, 
modification, operation, or maintenance of the eligible 
project;
(4) includes commitments to provide educational 
opportunities and training for workforce and skills 
development, if it is determined that there is an insufficient 
local workforce;
(5) may include commitments by a project sponsor to procure 
materials and services from local businesses, when possible;
(6) is negotiated through a process that includes 
meaningful engagement by the project sponsor with the CBA 
partner;
(7) details specific, measurable, and legally enforceable 
CBA commitments;
(8) includes a detailed plan, with clear metrics, 
milestones, and timelines for accomplishing such commitments;
(9) establishes specific roles, responsibilities, and 
processes for tracking and reporting progress with respect to 
commitments agreed to in the CBA;
(10) establishes clear enforcement processes to address a 
failure to fulfill a commitment that was agreed to;
(11) addresses the mechanism through which any disbursement 
agreed to in the CBA will be held and dispersed, such as 
through a trust fund or similar instrument; and
(12) if the CBA involves tribal lands or interests--
(A) it must be negotiated on a government-to-
government basis, in recognition of trust obligations 
and tribal sovereignty; and
(B) the CBA may include compensation to a Tribe for 
legal costs incurred during negotiation (including 
legal, staffing, and consulting expenses).
(c) Technical Assistance.--
(1) Upon request by a CBA partner, the lead agency may 
provide technical assistance to the CBA partner in developing 
and negotiating a community benefits agreement.
(2) In providing technical assistance, the agency must 
utilize technical assistance providers who are neutral, 
culturally competent, third parties with experience developing 
CBAs.
(d) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Authorization.--The term ``authorization'' means any 
license, permit, approval, finding, determination, or other 
administrative decision issued by an agency and any interagency 
consultation that is required or authorized under Federal law 
in order to site, construct, reconstruct, or commence 
operations of an infrastructure project.
(2) CBA partner.--The term ``CBA partner'' means a State, a 
local unit of government, an Indian Tribe, a labor 
organization, or a community benefits organization.
(3) Community benefits organization.--The term ``community 
benefits organization'' means an organization that--
(A) is described in section 501(c)(3) of the 
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and is exempt from 
taxation under section 501(a) of such Code; and
(B) is formed to protect the human health and 
environment of communities in the area in which a 
proposed the eligible project is to be carried out.
(4) Eligible project.--The term ``eligible project'' means 
a project for the construction, modification, or operation of a 
clean energy facility.
(5) Environmental document; lead agency.--The terms 
``environmental document'' and ``lead agency'' have the 
meanings given such terms, respectively, in section 111 of the 
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4336e).
(6) Clean energy facility.--The term ``clean energy 
facility'' means a facility that--
(A) uses wind, solar, or geothermal energy to 
generate energy;
(B) transmits electricity to support wind, solar, 
or geothermal energy generation; or
(C) stores energy.

SEC. 705. INTERVENOR FUNDING AT FERC OFFICE OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION.

(a) In General.--Section 319(b)(2) of the Federal Power Act (16 
U.S.C. 825q-l(b)(2)) is amended by striking ``The Commission may'' and 
inserting ``The Commission shall''.
(b) Rulemaking.--Not later than 180 days after the date of 
enactment of this Act, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission shall 
promulgate a final rule to provide compensation under section 319(b)(2) 
of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 825q-1(b)(2)), as amended by this 
section. Under such rule the Commission shall require that each 
intervenor or participant file a disclosure form of earned and unearned 
income to identify conflicts of interest. Such form shall not be overly 
burdensome.

SEC. 706. SENIOR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT OFFICERS AND TRIBAL COMMUNITY 
ENGAGEMENT OFFICERS.

(a) Designation of Senior Community Engagement Officers and Tribal 
Community Engagement Officers.--
(1) In general.--The head of each Federal agency required 
or authorized to complete an environmental document or an 
authorization for a major Federal action shall designate--
(A) 1 or more appropriate employees or officials of 
the applicable Federal agency to serve as a senior 
community engagement officer (referred to in this 
section as an ``SCO''); and
(B) 1 or more appropriate employees or officials of 
the applicable Federal agency (other than an employee 
or official designated as an SCO under subparagraph 
(A)) to serve as a Tribal community engagement officer 
(referred to in this section as a ``TEO'').
(2) Responsibilities of an sco and teo.--An SCO and a TEO 
shall--
(A) oversee community or Tribal, as applicable, 
engagement in environmental review and authorization 
processes carried out by the Federal agency;
(B) advise the applicable head of the Federal 
agency on matters relating to community or Tribal, as 
applicable, engagement in such reviews and processes;
(C) identify, recommend, and implement approaches 
to expand and improve early, meaningful community or 
Tribal, as applicable, engagement relating to the 
environmental review and authorization processes 
carried out by the Federal agency, including to ensure 
timely public access to all information relevant to 
inform such engagement;
(D) identify and avoid or resolve conflicts with 
communities or Indian Tribes affected by the 
environmental review or authorization processes, as 
applicable--
(i) to align Federal actions with the needs 
and interests of those communities or Indian 
Tribes, as applicable; and
(ii) to minimize the potential for delay of 
environmental review and authorization 
processes carried out by the Federal agency;
(E) identify opportunities with affected 
communities or Indian Tribes to accelerate the 
environmental review and authorization processes 
carried out by the Federal agency;
(F) provide technical support and capacity 
building, on request of a community or an Indian Tribe 
to enhance the ability of communities and Indian Tribes 
to engage constructively in Federal agency decision 
making;
(G) assist in developing and negotiating community 
benefits agreements consistent with section 704; and
(H) coordinate with the Council on Environmental 
Quality to develop interagency training modules, data 
sharing protocols, and community engagement standards 
to ensure consistency and accountability across Federal 
agencies.
(3) Reporting.--An SCO and a TEO shall report directly to a 
Deputy Secretary (or equivalent) or higher position in the 
Federal agency in which the SCO or TEO serves.
(4) Guidance.--The Director of the Office of Management and 
Budget shall establish any guidance necessary to establish SCO 
and TEO positions not later than 2 years of the date of 
enactment of this Act.
(b) Regional Community Engagement Officers.--A Federal agency may 
appoint regional community engagement officers to support community and 
Tribal engagement in environmental review and authorization processes 
carried out by the Federal agency within a region impacted by a 
proposed major Federal project, including by carrying out activities--
(1) to identify and implement approaches to expand and 
improve early, meaningful community and Tribal engagement 
relating to the environmental review and authorization 
processes carried out by the Federal agency;
(2) to identify and avoid or resolve conflicts with 
affected communities and Indian Tribes that have the potential 
to delay environmental review and authorization processes 
carried out by the Federal agency;
(3) to identify opportunities with affected communities and 
Indian Tribes to accelerate the environmental review and 
authorization processes carried out by the Federal agency;
(4) to provide technical support and capacity building, on 
request of a community or an Indian Tribe, to enhance the 
ability of communities or Indian Tribes to engage 
constructively in Federal agency decision making; and
(5) to assist in developing and negotiating community 
benefits agreements consistent with section 704.
(c) Application.--Notwithstanding any other provision of law, 
chapter 10 of title 5, United States Code (commonly known as the 
``Federal Advisory Committee Act''), shall not apply to stakeholder 
engagement processes or public comment activities that are required 
under or proceeding from a Federal environmental permitting process and 
led by an SCO, a TEO, or a regional community engagement officer 
appointed under subsection (b).
(d) FAST 41.--
(1) Definition of agency sco.--Section 41001 of the FAST 
Act (42 U.S.C. 4370m) is amended--
(A) by redesignating paragraphs (2) through (18) as 
paragraphs (3) through (19), respectively; and
(B) by inserting after paragraph (1) the following:
``(2) Agency sco.--The term `agency SCO' means the senior 
community engagement officer of an agency, as designated by the 
head of the agency under section 706(a)(1)(A) of the Energy 
Bills Relief Act.''.
(2) Dispute resolution.--Section 41003(c)(2)(C)(i) of the 
FAST Act (42 U.S.C. 4370m-2(c)(2)(C)(i)) is amended by striking 
``agency CERPOs'' and inserting ``agency CERPOs, agency 
SCOs,''.
(3) Environmental review improvement fund.--Section 
41009(d)(3) of the FAST Act (42 U.S.C. 4370m-8(d)(3)) is 
amended--
(A) by striking ``facilitate timely'' and inserting 
``facilitate early, meaningful community engagement and 
timely''; and
(B) by inserting ``and agency SCOs'' after ``agency 
CERPOs''.
(e) Definitions.--In this section:
(1) Authorization.--The term ``authorization'' means any 
license, permit, approval, finding, determination, or other 
administrative decision issued by an agency and any interagency 
consultation that is required or authorized under Federal law 
in order to site, construct, reconstruct, or commence 
operations of an infrastructure project.
(2) Environmental document.--The term ``environmental 
document'' has the meaning given such term in section 111 of 
the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 
4336e).

SEC. 707. CAPACITY GRANTS FOR PERMITTING AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT.

(a) In General.--The Administrator of the Environmental Protection 
Agency shall make grants to States, units of local government, and 
Indian Tribes which shall be used for purposes of--
(1) increasing the capacity of such organizations to 
conduct activities related to proposed major Federal actions, 
and State, local, and Tribal environmental reviews, permits, 
and consultations, including by--
(A) compiling data and conducting analyses, 
planning, and environmental review;
(B) determining potential economic, social, public 
health, and environmental impacts; or
(C) identifying opportunities to mitigate such 
impacts;
(2) coordinating with relevant Federal agencies in order to 
establish shared permitting information portals in association 
with the linked interagency environmental data collection 
systems established under section 702 through which project 
developers can--
(A) acquire all relevant information regarding 
pertinent Federal, State and local permitting 
requirements;
(B) submit all required permit applications; and
(C) request and receive assistance in completing 
relevant permit applications;
(3) identifying and minimizing redundancy between relevant 
Federal, State and local permitting requirements;
(4) enhancing community engagement opportunities related to 
environmental reviews;
(5) identifying zones for renewable energy development;
(6) facilitating the siting of renewable energy-related 
facilities and infrastructure;
(7) establishing local zoning ordinances that promote the 
development of renewable energy; and
(8) training and hiring personnel, and other activities to 
increase the capacity of States, units of local government, 
Indian Tribes, and nonprofit associations, as applicable, to 
carry out activities described in paragraphs (1) through (7).
(b) Funding.--There is authorized to be appropriated to the 
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to make grants 
under subsection (a) $500,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2026 through 
2031.
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