SPEED and Reliability Act of 2025

The SPEED and Reliability Act of 2025 streamlines federal permitting for new or modified electric transmission lines by requiring the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to issue permits within 18 months if projects meet specific criteria. It directly affects utilities building transmission infrastructure, landowners (like farmers and ranchers) along proposed routes, and state agencies through new consultation requirements. Key provisions include prioritizing projects that improve grid reliability (e.g., reducing outages), mandating landowner input during planning, and ensuring costs are allocated only to customers who benefit from the new infrastructure. The bill also clarifies FERC’s role versus state authorities and modifies cost allocation rules to align with benefits like reduced congestion and lower power losses.