Transmission companies can now build power lines with just a form
H.R. 8248 — Grid Expansion and Reliability Act · Filed by Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) · 1 cosponsor · Introduced Apr 13, 2026 · Referred to committee
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What it does
This bill amends the Federal Power Act to allow companies and individuals to build or upgrade electric transmission lines in federally designated 'national interest' corridors by simply filing a self-certification form with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), rather than going through FERC's traditional permitting process. The bill requires FERC to audit these certifications annually and report to Congress on how well the streamlined process works.
Why we flagged it
The bill's core function is to bypass FERC's formal permitting process for transmission projects in designated corridors, replacing it with self-certification. This is a deregulatory measure that prioritizes speed and developer convenience over public participation and environmental review.
What the text implies
- Self-certification removes the requirement for FERC to conduct environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) or to hold public hearings, eliminating a key avenue for community input and legal challenge.
- The bill does not specify what happens if a self-certified project causes environmental harm, violates state law, or damages private property — it only requires FERC to audit whether the certification form was complete, not whether the project itself is safe or appropriate.
The full analysis lists 5 implications of this text.
Who stands to gain
electric transmission developers and utilities; renewable energy project developers (who may need transmission to connect to grid); construction and engineering firms specializing in transmission infrastructure