FERC Exposes Secrets from Off-the-Record Whisper Sessions
Published Date: 2/13/2026
Notice
Summary
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) is sharing updates about off-the-record communications related to ongoing cases. They’re making sure any secret chats that could affect decisions are properly recorded and shared with all parties involved. This keeps the process fair and transparent, with no extra costs or delays expected.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Staff must file off-the-record communications
Under 18 CFR 385.2201(b) and Order No. 607 (64 FR 51222, September 22, 1999), Commission decisional employees who make or receive a prohibited or exempt off-the-record communication must deliver to the Secretary a copy of the communication if it is written, or a summary of the substance if it is oral. This rule applies to communications relevant to the merits of a contested proceeding.
Prohibited communications placed in public file
Prohibited off-the-record communications are placed in a public, non-decisional file associated with the proceeding and will not be considered by the Commission in reaching its decision unless the Commission decides to include them in the decisional record. Parties may seek to respond to facts or contentions in a prohibited communication and may request the Commission place the communication and responses into the decisional record; the Commission will do so only when it determines that fairness so requires, and the person who made the prohibited communication must serve the document on all parties listed on the official service list under Rule 2010 (18 CFR 385.2010).
Exempt communications become part of decisional record
Exempt off-the-record communications are included in the decisional record of the proceeding, except when the communication was with a cooperating agency as described in 40 CFR 1501.6 under 18 CFR 385.2201(e)(1)(v).
FERC posts off-the-record filings online
The notice lists recent off-the-record communications received on 1-29-2026, 1-30-2026, 2-02-2026, and 2-06-2026 and states that each filing may be viewed on the Commission's website at http://www.ferc.gov using the eLibrary link. For assistance, FERC provides contact information including FERC Online Support at [email protected], toll free (866) 208-3676, and TTY (202) 502-8659.
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: 2026-02942, North American Electric Reliability Corporation; Notice of Staff Attendance at North American Electric Reliability Corporation Industry Webinar and Planning and Operational Studies Drafting Teams Meetings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission staff will join several online meetings hosted by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation to discuss important plans for keeping our electric grid safe and reliable. These talks happen in February 2026 and focus on improving how power systems are studied and managed. If you’re involved in the energy industry, these updates could affect how you prepare and operate, but there’s no direct cost or deadline announced yet.
Next: 2026-02944, Environmental Impact Statements; Notice of Availability
The EPA just shared new Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) for projects like dam updates and river plans that affect communities and nature. People and groups involved have until mid to late March 2026 to review and comment. These updates help protect the environment while balancing energy and water needs, with no big costs announced yet.