Bill to clarify FERC authority over utility mergers and consolidations signed into law

President Donald Trump on Sept. 28 signed into law a bill that amends the Federal Power Act to clarify the authority of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) over mergers or consolidations by a public utility.

Specifically, the legislation establishes a minimum monetary threshold of $10 million for mergers and acquisitions of facilities subject to the jurisdiction of FERC.

U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, authored the bill, H.R. 1109.

Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Greg Walden (R-OR) and Subcommittee on Energy Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) issued a joint statement following the signing, noting that the bill would reduce paperwork for FERC and lower energy prices for consumers.

“By applying a consistent standard for FERC’s reviews, we are reducing excessive regulatory costs and allowing FERC to focus on its mission of affordable and reliable energy,” Reps. Walden and Upton said. “This commonsense initiative will cut bureaucratic red tape, while bringing down energy prices for Americans across the country. Rep. Walberg’s bill is an example of good governance and we applaud his dedication to enact solutions that put consumers first.”