Submitted April 10, 2026
The Electric Power Supply Association (EPSA) submitted formal responses to Questions for the Record following the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy & Natural Resources hearing on the state of the bulk power system.
In its filing, EPSA President & CEO Todd Snitchler outlines key policy and market considerations shaping the future of the U.S. electric grid, including energy infrastructure development, grid reliability, electricity market performance, and rising power demand from data centers and electrification.
Key Issues Addressed
Permitting Reform and Energy Infrastructure Development
EPSA underscores that permitting certainty and regulatory stability are essential to enable investment in new power plants, transmission, and energy infrastructure. Unpredictable or delayed permitting processes can deter investment in critical energy projects needed to meet growing demand.
Generator Interconnection and Grid Modernization
The filing highlights improvements in generator interconnection processes, including the use of advanced computing, automation, and artificial intelligence to reduce delays and accelerate project timelines.
Electricity Markets and Ratepayer Protection
EPSA emphasizes the role of competitive wholesale electricity markets in protecting consumers and ensuring that large new loads—such as data centers—pay their fair share of system costs, rather than shifting costs onto residential ratepayers.
Rising Electricity Demand and Resource Adequacy
With data center growth, electrification, and domestic manufacturing increasing electricity demand, EPSA notes that market signals—such as capacity prices—are critical to incentivizing new generation and maintaining grid reliability.
Grid Reliability, Security, and Resilience
EPSA also highlights the importance of Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards, federal oversight, and industry coordination to address evolving risks to the bulk power system, including cyber and physical threats.
Supporting a Reliable and Affordable Electric Grid
EPSA’s responses reinforce that meeting future electricity demand will require significant investment in the bulk power system, supported by clear market signals, durable permitting policies, and a stable regulatory environment. Competitive power markets remain a critical tool for delivering reliable, affordable electricity while protecting consumers.
📄 Read the full filing: https://epsa.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/QFRs_EPSA_ToddSnitchler_April102026.pdf
