The U.S. House of Representatives has passed H.R. 9541, the Promoting Opportunities to Widen Electrical Resilience (POWER) Act, a bipartisan measure co-authored by Rep. Mike Ezell (R-MS4) and Rep. Val Hoyle (D-OR4). The legislation aims to provide public power utilities with more significant resources for long-term hazard mitigation and grid resilience while rebuilding infrastructure following major disasters.

“Public power utilities play a critical role in ensuring our communities have reliable, resilient electricity, especially after a major disaster,” Ezell said. “This legislation will help save lives and swiftly restore critical services. I’m proud to have co-led this important effort to safeguard our energy systems against future challenges.”

Hoyle emphasized the bill’s importance in addressing the growing frequency of severe weather events. “My bill gives electric utilities more tools to rebuild for resilience after a major disaster, reducing the risk of future power outages that harm public safety and local economies,” Hoyle said.

Under current law, utilities receiving Federal Emergency Management Agency funding to restore service after disasters are often ineligible for additional federal funding for resilience improvements. The POWER Act eliminates this restriction, allowing communities to restore power quickly while implementing long-term mitigation measures.

Scott Corwin, president and CEO of the American Public Power Association, highlighted the economic and community benefits of the bill. “The POWER Act reduces the painful choice between immediate response and long-term investments,” he said. “This is good for the economy, local communities, and public power customers.”

Jim Matheson, CEO of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, praised the legislation’s impact on disaster recovery. “This bill helps electric cooperatives rebuild damaged infrastructure to be stronger and more resilient than ever before,” Matheson said, citing its importance for areas recovering from hurricanes and wildfires.

Dr. Natalie Enclade, executive director of BuildStrong America, described the measure as transformative. “Strengthening critical systems like our electrical grid through hazard mitigation helps reduce future risks, safeguard communities, and promote long-term resilience,” she said.

The POWER Act streamlines the process for public power utilities to secure federal funding, ensuring disaster recovery efforts are efficient and forward-looking.

The bill now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration. If approved, it will advance to the president’s desk for signature.