FERC Seeks Public Input on Protecting Our Power Grid

You might care about this because the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is asking for public comments on an important information collection related to the reliability of our nation's electricity grid. Specifically, they are looking at FERC-725U, which deals with mandatory reliability standards for the bulk power system. These standards come from a law passed in 2005 called the Energy Policy Act. This act added Section 215 to the Federal Power Act, which requires an organization, now known as the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), to create and enforce rules to keep our power grid safe. FERC reviews and approves these rules. One such rule, CIP-014-3, focuses on protecting critical transmission facilities from physical attacks. This rule makes sure that companies which own or operate parts of the power grid identify and secure their substations and control centers. These are places that, if damaged, could cause widespread power outages. Companies must keep records for three years to show they are following these rules. This public comment period allows people to share their thoughts on these information collection requirements. What makes this document interesting is its focus on the ongoing effort to secure the country's main power grid against physical threats. The reliability standards, especially CIP-014-3, show how regulators and industry work together to protect essential services. It highlights the proactive steps being taken to prevent major disruptions caused by physical attacks on energy infrastructure. This specific standard ensures that critical parts of the electrical system are identified and protected. It also shows the importance of documentation and compliance, making sure that companies are not just aware of the rules but are actively following them. The continuous review process, like this request for comments, ensures that these security measures remain effective and adapt to new challenges. This document is a reminder that keeping the lights on involves constant vigilance and careful planning against various dangers. People most interested in this legal document include companies that own or operate parts of the electricity transmission system, such as utility companies and power grid operators. Lawyers specializing in energy law and regulatory compliance will also find this very relevant, as it directly impacts how their clients must operate. Cybersecurity and physical security experts in the energy sector would also want to review these standards. Additionally, policymakers and government officials concerned with national infrastructure security and energy reliability would find this information valuable. Finally, anyone who relies on a stable and secure electricity supply, which is essentially everyone, might be interested in understanding how these protective measures are maintained and improved.