Electricity grid resilience: Climate change is expected to have far-reaching effects and DOE and FERC should take actions

This testimony summarizes GAO’s report on grid resilience to climate change. Specifically, the testimony discusses (1) potential climate change effects on the electricity grid; and (2) actions DOE and FERC have taken since 2014 to enhance electricity grid resilience to climate change effects, and additional actions these agencies could take. GAO reviewed reports and interviewed agency officials and 55 relevant stakeholders.

The report concludes: Recent weather events—such as extreme heat and associated wildfires, extreme cold, and hurricanes—have adversely affected millions of electric utility customers. Power disruptions during extreme weather events illustrate the need to plan for climate change risks and invest in climate resilience. DOE and FERC have taken actions to enhance the resilience of the electricity grid. Nevertheless, the report found opportunities for both agencies to take actions to further enhance grid resilience to climate change. The federal government plays an important role in shaping electric industry decisions to adopt grid resilience measures. Moreover, the federal government has an opportunity to act as a trusted clearinghouse and integrator of federal and nonfederal information in a way that enhances its reach and value.