BIG WIRES Act

This bill requires the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to set minimum standards for how much electricity can be transferred between different regions of the U.S. electric grid, aiming to improve reliability and lower costs. Sec. 3, Minimum interregional transfer capabilities and requirements: FERC must issue a rule within 18 months requiring each transmission planning region to have a minimum transfer capability equal to the lesser of 30% of its peak load or its current capability plus 15% of its peak load. FERC may set higher requirements if net benefits are shown. The rule must define how to calculate current transfer capabilities and peak loads using Energy Information Administration data. Each region must submit a plan within 2 years to meet the requirement by December 31, 2035, including cost allocation and construction timelines. Plans must be updated every 5 years. FERC will designate entities and allocate costs if a region fails to submit a plan. The Public Utility Commission of Texas may voluntarily comply. The Energy Information Administration must update data quality within 180 days. FERC must aim to improve grid reliability and reduce consumer costs.