S.B. No. 2148 aims to enhance the reliability of the electricity supply chain in Texas by amending Section 38.077 of the Utilities Code. The bill introduces new definitions and requirements for conducting simulated or tabletop exercises related to load shedding and the protection of critical facilities, such as transmission substations. Specifically, it mandates that the Public Utility Commission and the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region conduct these exercises to prepare for potential physical attacks on critical infrastructure. The bill stipulates that at least one exercise must occur during summer and winter months, and additional exercises focused on threats to critical facilities must be conducted at least every two years.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders, including electric generation service providers, transmission and distribution service providers, law enforcement, and the independent organization. It also ensures that transmission and distribution service providers are not required to disclose the specific locations of their critical substations during these exercises. Each participating provider must attest in writing that they have coordinated with law enforcement regarding their roles in the exercises. The bill requires that these exercises be completed by December 31, 2026, and it will take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Utilities Code 38.077 (Utilities Code 38)
Senate Committee Report: Utilities Code 38.077 (Utilities Code 38)
Engrossed: Utilities Code 38.077 (Utilities Code 38)
House Committee Report: Utilities Code 38.077 (Utilities Code 38)