FERC Joins with DOE, EPA to Manage Rollout of Clean Power Plan

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The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) agreed on August 3 that, as the Clean Power Plan (CPP) is executed nationwide, they will monitor the development of single-state or multi-state plans, or, where applicable, a federal plan; and address any grid reliability issues.

Specifically, FERC will continue to focus on factors related to the CPP involving the reliability of the power grid; the efficient operation of wholesale electricity markets; and the potential need for additional energy infrastructure, especially new electric transmission and natural gas interstate pipelines.

Further, all three agencies will engage with stakeholders, including:

  • Utility trade associations and generation owners with fleets affected by the EPA regulations;
  • Organizations of state agencies relevant to the CPP, including but not limited to the National Association of Clean Air Agencies (NACAA), the Association of Air Pollution Control Agencies (AAPCA), the Environmental Council of States (COS), the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), and the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO);
  • Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs), Independent System Operators (ISOs), and planning authorities and other utilities affected by the CPP; and
  • The North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and affiliated regional reliability entities.

The agencies will meet on a quarterly frequency. Once state (or multi-state) plans are approved, or a federal plan is imposed, the agencies anticipate continuing their coordinated efforts. Technical assistance will be provided, based on the resources available.

Environment + Energy Leader