REWIRE Act

Key Points

• The bill creates a fast-track environmental approval for upgrading power lines within existing rights-of-way, skipping lengthy environmental reviews when work happens on already-disturbed land. This could dramatically speed up grid modernization projects.
• The bill defines "advanced transmission conductors" as wires that carry at least 70% more electricity, have 10% lower electrical resistance, and expand 50% less from heat compared to traditional aluminum-and-steel cables. These would replace aging infrastructure on existing routes.
• FERC would be required to create new rules within one year allowing power companies to earn a higher return on equity when they invest in advanced conductors, giving utilities a financial incentive to choose modern technology over cheaper traditional wires.
• The Department of Energy would set up a national laboratory program to model grid performance and create regional collaboratives with universities, helping plan where advanced conductors and grid-enhancing technologies would do the most good.
• The bill also directs DOE to publish an application guide within one year and offer technical assistance to utilities, states, and grid operators looking to install advanced conductors and grid-enhancing technologies, with a clearinghouse of lessons from past projects.