Virtual Power Grids Approved: FERC Ensures Safe Tech!
Published Date: 3/24/2026
Rule
Summary
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission just approved new rules to keep our electric grid safe while letting companies use cool new virtualization tech. These changes affect power companies and take effect on May 26, 2026, helping them protect critical systems better without breaking the bank. Plus, there’s a new rule to make sure exceptions are clear and fair, so everyone plays by the same safety rules.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
FERC Approves Virtualization Standards
The Commission approved 11 modified Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Reliability Standards to allow responsible entities to adopt virtualization and other new technologies in a secure manner. The rule is effective May 26, 2026, and the new standards are intended to improve the reliability and cybersecurity of the Bulk-Power System without obligating entities to adopt virtualization.
New 'Per System Capability' Exception
The rule replaces the prior technical feasibility exception language with a new 'per system capability' approach that lets a responsible entity determine an alternative mitigation when a specific system cannot perform a required action. The Commission directed NERC to develop a clear set of criteria and documentation requirements so entities and auditors know when and how the per system capability exception may be invoked.
Mandatory Exception Reporting and Annual Data Report
When a responsible entity invokes the per system capability exception, NERC must implement mandatory reporting to the ERO Enterprise (Regional Entity, NERC, or both) including the applicable CIP Requirement, explanation of the need, and description of alternative mitigation. NERC must also file an anonymized, aggregated annual report to the Commission (first due 12 months after compliance with the 11 standards becomes mandatory) showing counts, categorizations by Requirement, asset types, and mitigation types.
Early Adoption Option for Entities
Responsible entities may comply with the approved Reliability Standards before their mandatory effective date by notifying their Regional Entity; NERC's implementation plan allows early adoption at 6, 12, or 18 months after the effective date of this final rule. NERC must ensure the per system capability program criteria are available in time for entities that choose to adopt early.
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
2026-20744, Combined Notice of Filings #2
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got a new filing from Iroquois Gas Transmission about changing their natural gas rates starting November 1, 2026. This affects customers and companies using their pipeline, who might see new negotiated prices. If you want to speak up or get involved, you have until October 19, 2026, to file your comments or protests.
2026-20658, Shoshone Irrigation District; Notice of Existing Licensee's Failure To File a Timely Notice of Intent To File a New License Application, and Soliciting Notices of Intent To File a License Application and Pre-Application Documents
The Shoshone Irrigation District missed the deadline to say if they want to renew their license for the Garland Canal hydro project in Wyoming, which ends in 2031. Because of this, they’re treated as if they don’t plan to relicense, opening the door for others to step in and apply. If you’re interested, now’s the time to file your intent and get your paperwork ready!
2026-20659, Eastern Shore Natural Gas Company; Notice of Application and Establishing Intervention Deadline
Eastern Shore Natural Gas is planning a big upgrade to its pipelines in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland, including building new loops and replacing old pipes. This $75 million project will boost gas delivery for local utilities and customers, with new facilities and some old parts being removed. If you want to have a say, you need to act before the intervention deadline set by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
2026-20642, Combined Notice of Filings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got a new filing from Colorado Interstate Gas Company about changing a gas pipeline agreement that starts November 16, 2026. People who want to speak up or join the discussion must do so by October 14, 2026. This could affect gas rates and contracts, so keep an eye on the deadline if you’re involved!
2026-20580, Northern Natural Gas Company; Notice of Availability of the Environmental Assessment for the Proposed Ventura to Farmington A-Line Abandonment and Capacity Replacement Project and Northern Lights 2027 Expansion Project
Northern Natural Gas Company plans to retire old pipeline sections in Iowa and Minnesota and build new ones to keep gas flowing smoothly and add extra capacity. This project will affect local communities and the environment but aims to do so responsibly, with a decision expected after public comments by November 2, 2026. The upgrades will help deliver more natural gas reliably, supporting energy needs without major environmental harm.
2026-20582, Combined Notice of Filings
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission got new filings from several natural gas pipeline companies about rate changes and agreements that could affect how much customers pay starting this fall. If you want to speak up or get involved, you need to comment by mid-October or late October depending on the case. These updates impact pipeline rates and contracts, so keep an eye on deadlines to have your say!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-05712, Approval and Promulgation of Delegation of Authority for Designated Facilities and Pollutants; Washington; Southwest Clean Air Agency
The EPA is giving the Southwest Clean Air Agency (SWCAA) the power to enforce pollution rules for certain waste-burning facilities in parts of Washington, like Clark and Cowlitz counties. This change means SWCAA will handle pollution limits for hospitals, industries, and sewage plants starting March 24, 2026. It won’t cost businesses extra but helps keep the air cleaner and enforcement local and efficient.
Next: 2026-05721, Meaning of Terms as Used in This Subchapter; Representation Proceedings; National Consultation Rights and Consultation Rights on Government-wide Rules or Regulations; Miscellaneous and General Requirements
The Federal Labor Relations Authority is updating rules to speed up how they handle workplace representation cases, making decisions clearer and faster for everyone involved. These changes affect federal employees and unions, aiming to simplify processes without adding costs. The new rules kick in on April 23, 2026, and the FLRA wants your feedback by then!