The bill, titled "An Act relating to the protection of critical components of the electric grid from damage from electromagnetic threats," introduces a new chapter, Chapter 44, to the Utilities Code, focusing on grid resilience. It mandates the commission to identify critical components of the ERCOT electric grid that are vulnerable to electromagnetic pulses (EMPs) and geomagnetic disturbances. The commission is also tasked with evaluating EMP Commission reports for their applicability to the electric grid and establishing rules requiring that high-capacity generation substations and large power transformers constructed after September 1, 2025, adhere to standards for withstanding specific electromagnetic pulse levels.

Additionally, the bill establishes a grant program to fund protective upgrades for critical components at risk of failure due to electromagnetic threats. It creates an "electromagnetic pulse protection and resilience account" within the general revenue fund to support these initiatives, funded by legislative appropriations and donations. The bill also includes a provision for a biennial review of the grant program to assess its cost-effectiveness and public benefits. Furthermore, it amends existing law to include protections against electromagnetic threats as part of the resiliency enhancement plans for electric utilities. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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