BIG WIRES Act

The BIG WIRES Act requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to establish rules mandating minimum interregional electricity transfer capabilities for U.S. grid regions. Specifically, FERC must set rules within 18 months requiring each region to achieve a minimum transfer capability equal to at least 30% of its peak electricity demand by 2035, through new transmission projects or grid improvements. This directly affects grid operators and transmission utilities responsible for planning and building interregional infrastructure. The bill requires regions to submit joint plans detailing project timelines, cost allocation, and compliance with these new standards, aiming to improve grid reliability and reduce energy costs.