Peace Garden News

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-ND) has introduced H.Res. 290 in the House of Representatives to highlight and address the increasing threats to the reliability of the United States' electric grid. The resolution points out that the early closure of essential power sources such as coal and natural gas without adequate replacements poses a risk to the nation's energy stability, costs, and security.

According to Fedorchak, "America’s power grid is facing a perfect storm. Demand is skyrocketing—driven by AI, data centers, and a growing economy—while reliable baseload power is being shut down without equitable replacement generation. If we don’t correct course, we’re headed for blackouts, soaring electricity costs, and a direct threat to our national security.” She aims to generate momentum for policies that address these issues through this resolution.

This measure is part of a broader initiative by Fedorchak aimed at enhancing grid reliability and promoting the development of reliable, affordable power sources. Recently, she introduced a Congressional Review Act (CRA) initiative to repeal the Biden administration's “Once In, Always In” rule, arguing that it raises costs for energy producers and hampers investment in emissions reduction technologies. Fedorchak also co-sponsored the repeal of a methane tax, which she claims threatened jobs, increased costs, and impacted energy independence negatively. This repeal was enacted into law by President Trump in March 2025.

The resolution is based on findings by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation from 2024, which warns that a majority of transmission regions could experience power inadequacies by 2034. It underscores risks such as the premature decommissioning of baseload plants, overdependence on intermittent power sources, insufficient natural gas infrastructure, and new energy demands spurred by emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, potentially consuming a significant portion of national electricity by 2030.

H.Res 290, co-sponsored by Energy and Commerce Republican Rep. Laurel Lee (R-FL), supports President Trump's National Energy Emergency declaration and an Executive Order aimed at reviving American energy to bolster economic and national security.