👋 Situational awareness: Summer was a busy stretch on Capitol Hill for the electrical contracting industry. Before heading home for August recess, the House Energy and Commerce Committee advanced the Ratepayer Protection Act (cleared 52–0) and rolled it, along with 18 other bills, into the sweeping POWER Act to speed up permitting and hold down grid costs. Meanwhile, the White House expanded its Ratepayer Protection Pledge to more than 200 signatories, and NECA members connected with lawmakers from Tennessee to Capitol Hill. Here's everything you need to know from Washington.
Let's dive in!
Energy and Commerce Committee packages grid bills as POWER Act
Before leaving for August recess, the House Energy and Commerce Committee moved aggressively on energy legislation, advancing a slate of grid and electricity bills in a July 20–21 markup, then rolling much of that work into a single, sweeping permitting and cost-reduction bill.
The centerpiece of the markup was the Ratepayer Protection Act (H.R. 9340), which cleared committee 52–0.
The bipartisan bill directs states to consider requiring large data centers — those drawing 100 megawatts or more — to pay the full cost of the grid upgrades they trigger, keeping those costs off everyday ratepayers.
On July 22, Chairman Brett Guthrie (R-Ky.) combined that work into the Permitting Our Way to an Energy Resurgence Act (POWER Act).
The 96-page discussion draft merges 19 committee bills, many already approved in committee.
Guthrie released it as a House marker while the Senate works toward its own permitting deal; whether it reaches the floor before fall remains unclear.
Several other NECA-supported bills are consolidated in the POWER Act, including:
GRID Power Act (H.R. 1047, Rep. Balderson (R-Ohio))
Electric Supply Chain Act (H.R. 3638, Rep. Latta (R-Ohio))
FENCES Act (H.R. 6409, Rep. Pfluger (R-Texas))
FIRE Act (H.R. 6387, Rep. Evans (R-Colo.))
RED Tape Act (H.R. 6398, Rep. Joyce (R-Pa.))
Why it matters: For NECA contractors, both the individual bills and the POWER Act point the same way: meeting rising demand while holding down costs requires a major buildout of generation, transmission, and grid infrastructure, and faster permitting moves approved projects into construction sooner. It remains a top priority in both chambers.
White House boosts ratepayer protection
Photo courtesy of The White House.
President Trump announced an expansion of the White House Ratepayer Protection Pledge, urging data center developers, tech companies, and utilities to shoulder the costs of new power generation and grid upgrades.
Why it matters: This expansion shields households and small businesses from bearing the financial burden of infrastructure upgrades, aligning with the proposed Ratepayer Protection Act.
The pledge, initially signed by seven tech giants, now includes over 200 signatories, covering 80% of U.S. power delivery.
NECA contractors stand to benefit as increased data center demand drives opportunities for new generation, transmission, and grid enhancements.
The big picture: As the coalition grows, the need for transparent financing models evolves, potentially influencing legislative actions and market dynamics.
Signatories agree to construct, secure, or buy the necessary generation and delivery infrastructure, negotiating separate rate structures with utilities and states.
What’s next: The pledge’s alignment with the Ratepayer Protection Act could hasten its passage, formalizing these commitments into law. NECA contractors should prepare for increased demand in electrical infrastructure projects.
Rep. Fleischmann joins JATC Fish Fry
From left to right: Chase Pendergraft (TN Chapter NECA), Curt Sims (Allied Electrical), Charlie Wood (Triad Electric), Rep. Fleischmann (TN-03), Larry Pittsley (Superior Electric), Weston Wamp (Hamilton County Mayor), Mark Fullam (Lawson Electric), Michael Young (Young Electric) and Caleb Bowman (NABCO Electric)
The Tennessee Chapter was proud to welcome Rep. Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN-03) to the Chattanooga Electrical JATC Fish Fry on July 8, where he gave remarks and spent time with members and apprentices. A familiar and welcome guest to the local chapter, Fleischmann also met with the Chattanooga Division Board of Directors, Chapter Governor Larry Pittsley, President Curt Sims, and Executive Director Chase Pendergraft.
Why it matters: Rep. Fleischmann’s role as chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development is crucial for electrical construction priorities.
His advocacy for nuclear energy intersects with projects at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the Tennessee Valley Authority in his district.
The big picture: Fleischmann’s continued support strengthens the electrical industry in East Tennessee, aligning with NECA’s mission to advance energy and infrastructure development.
Celebrating lineworkers on Capitol Hill
From left to right: Mike Starner (NECA), Rep. Norcross (D-NJ-01), Anthony D’Arensbourg (Richardson-Wayland Ferreira), Joey Compton (Richardson-Wayland Ferreira), Robbie Foxen (NECA), Rep. Bresnahan (R-PA-08)
NECA joined forces with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers and the Edison Electric Institute for a Capitol Hill reception on July 14, celebrating National Lineworker Appreciation Day.
Why it matters: This annual observance on July 10 highlights the essential role of lineworkers in maintaining the nation’s transmission and distribution systems.
The big picture: Over 120 members of Congress co-sponsored resolutions to mark the occasion, showcasing widespread recognition of lineworkers‘ contributions.
NECA’s Robbie Foxen and Mike Starner introduced Rep. Donald Norcross (D-N.J.), a former IBEW electrician, who emphasized the skill and training behind the trade.
The event attracted NECA members and congressional supporters, including Rep. Rob Bresnahan (R-Pa.), the first NECA contractor elected to Congress, and representatives from Richardson-Wayland Ferreira, an American Line Builders Chapter NECA contractor.
Congress is home for August – make it count!
Members of the House of Representatives are back in their districts for August, offering a prime opportunity for constituents to connect.
Why it matters: This month-long recess allows elected officials time to engage with their constituents, away from the hustle of Washington.
It’s a chance to discuss NECA’s key issues and influence future legislative decisions.
Meeting locations can include NECA-IBEW Training Centers, jobsites, or chapter offices.
The big picture: Face-to-face meetings with Members of Congress put a personal touch on industry concerns.
Come prepared: know the top issues affecting the industry and bring information specific to your district that shows the impact NECA contractors make locally — things like your employee count or a recent project worth highlighting.
These interactions can help demonstrate the local impact of NECA contractors.
Worth noting: Photos with members of Congress earn points in the Chairman’s Challenge. 😉
