Hoeven Stresses Need for Reliable Baseload Power and Energy Infrastructure, Respect for Property Rights at FERC Nomination Hearing

Hoeven Stresses Need for Reliable Baseload Power and Energy Infrastructure, Respect for Property Rights at FERC Nomination Hearing

WASHINGTON - During a Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee hearing this week, Senator John Hoeven discussed efforts to expand the availability of reliable baseload power and the importance of protecting private property rights to Federal Energy Regulatory Commissions (FERC) nominees Laura Swett and David LaCerte. Having also met with the nominees earlier this week, Hoeven questioned them on the need to meet rising electricity demand and the critical role of coal-fired baseload generation, which is vital for grid operators like MISO and SPP in North Dakota and the surrounding region. Accordingly, Hoeven:

• Secured commitments from Swett and LaCerte to support market structures that properly value baseload power.
• Outlined the importance of transmission and pipeline infrastructure.
• Pressed the nominees to respect states' rights and landowners when making permitting decisions.

"Maintaining affordable, reliable energy is vital for the well-being of our communities and the strength of our economy," said Hoeven "We need policies that support a diverse mix of energy resources to ensure grid stability and resilience, while also respecting the rights of states and private landowners."

The hearing highlighted issues central to Senator Hoeven's ongoing legislative efforts, including the GRID Power Act, bicameral legislation he introduced with Senator Todd Young (R-IN) and Rep. Troy Balderson (R-OH) to fast-track the development of new baseload power projects and improve grid reliability. Key provisions of the bill include:

• Authorizing regional grid operators to prioritize baseload generation projects seeking interconnection agreements.
• Addressing median wait times of up to five years for interconnection agreements that delay critical project development.
• Mandating FERC to initiate rulemaking within 90 days of enactment and finalize rules within 180 days.
• Requiring FERC to act on prioritized baseload projects within 60 days.

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