Grid Gets Virtual: FERC Proposes Tech Security Overhaul
Published Date: 9/23/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is updating rules to keep our electric grid safe while using cool new tech like virtualization. These changes affect electric companies and make sure they protect important systems better and smarter. The updates roll out soon and help prevent costly power problems by keeping everything secure and reliable.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.
Grid reliability improved with virtualization rules
The Commission proposes approval of four new definitions and 18 modified definitions in the NERC Glossary plus eleven modified Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Reliability Standards. The changes are meant to enable virtualization and other new technologies in a secure way and help prevent costly power problems by keeping the electric grid more secure and reliable.
Electric companies subject to updated CIP standards
The proposal would modify the NERC Glossary (four new and 18 modified definitions) and approve eleven modified CIP Reliability Standards to update rules so virtualization and other new technologies can be applied securely. These updates explicitly affect electric companies and direct that important systems be better protected and managed.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20238, RamaFlux Sierra PSH, LLC; Notice of Preliminary Permit Application Accepted for Filing and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Competing Applications
RamaFlux Sierra PSH, LLC wants to study building a big 750-megawatt pumped storage hydroelectric project near Nevada City, California. This notice means they got the green light to explore the idea but can’t start building yet. People have until November 30, 2026, to share their thoughts, join the process, or suggest other project ideas.
2026-20217, Combined Notice of Filings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got several filings from natural gas companies about new rates and reports. These changes mostly affect pipeline customers and could change prices starting November 1, 2026. If you want to share your thoughts, you have until October 13, 2026, to comment.
2026-20216, Combined Notice of Filings #1
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got several new filings from energy companies like Shell Energy and West Camp Wind Farm asking for approval on big projects and changes. These filings affect companies involved in power generation and trading, with deadlines for public comments coming up in mid-October. Some filings also include refund reports, hinting at possible money adjustments for customers.
2026-20105, The City of Columbus, Ohio; Notice of Application for Surrender of Exemption Accepted for Filing, Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Protests
The City of Columbus, Ohio, wants to give up its special exemption for the O'Shaughnessy Dam Hydroelectric Facility on the Scioto River. This change could affect local energy rules and requires approval from environmental agencies, with public comments due by October 28, 2026. If you care about local energy or the environment, now’s the time to speak up!
2026-20106, Combined Notice of Filings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got a bunch of filings from natural gas pipeline companies about changing their rates and agreements. These changes mostly take effect starting November 1, 2026, and could affect how much customers pay or how companies handle fuel and losses. If you’re involved with these pipelines, keep an eye on comment deadlines in early to mid-October to have your say!
2026-19984, Florida Gas Transmission Company, LLC; Notice of Request Under Blanket Authorization and Establishing Intervention and Protest Deadline
Florida Gas Transmission Company wants to lower the pressure on a big gas pipeline in Calhoun and Liberty Counties, Florida, to keep things safe and run smoother. This change helps meet safety rules and improve operations without extra costs to customers. If you care, you can speak up by October 20, 2026, to join the conversation or raise concerns.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-18370, Establishment of Class E Airspace; Manila Airport, Manila, UT
Manila Airport in Utah is getting new Class E Airspace starting 700 feet above the ground to help pilots fly safely using instruments. This change mainly affects pilots flying in and out of Manila Airport and makes sure flights follow clear, safe paths. The update kicks in soon and won’t cost anyone extra—just smoother skies ahead!
Next: 2025-18396, Critical Infrastructure Protection Reliability Standard CIP-003-11-Cyber Security-Security Management Controls
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission is updating a cyber security rule called CIP-003-11 to better protect smaller electric facilities from coordinated cyberattacks. This change affects companies running low-impact electric sites and aims to stop small problems from turning into big blackouts. The new rules will roll out soon, helping keep our power safe without breaking the bank.