Bill > S1068

This bill amends the Federal Power Act to empower the Secretary of Energy to take immediate action against cybersecurity threats to the bulk-power system, which refers to the interconnected electrical generation and transmission facilities critical for delivering electricity. If the President issues a written notice declaring an immediate need to protect this system from a cybersecurity threat, defined as the imminent danger of a malicious act disrupting its operation, the Secretary can order entities owning, controlling, or operating bulk-power system facilities to implement necessary protective measures. Before issuing such an order, the Secretary is encouraged to coordinate with Canadian and Mexican officials responsible for the North American electricity grid's cybersecurity and must consult with affected entities, the Electric Reliability Organization (an organization responsible for grid reliability), the Electricity Sub-sector Coordinating Council (a group focused on critical infrastructure protection), and other federal officials. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) will create a system allowing owners, operators, or users of the bulk-power system to recover reasonable and necessary costs incurred from complying with these orders, ensuring that any approved rates or charges are fair and non-discriminatory. Emergency orders issued under this authority are initially limited to 30 days, but can be extended up to 90 days if the Secretary provides an opportunity for public input and formally affirms or amends the order.