Congressman Brett Guthrie and Congressman Bob Latta announced a hearing on the oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). The hearing, titled “Oversight of FERC: Advancing Affordable and Reliable Energy for All Americans,” is set to take place on February 3, 2026, at the Rayburn House Office Building. It will be open to the public and livestreamed online.
Chairmen Guthrie and Latta emphasized FERC’s crucial role in ensuring access to reliable and affordable electricity and natural gas. They highlighted the importance of efficient permitting for interstate natural gas pipelines, which communities depend on. The hearing aims to discuss strengthening the electric grid, increasing resources for advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence infrastructure, while reducing costs for families across the country.
David LaCerte, a FERC Commissioner, will testify before Congress for the first time. He plans to focus on three priorities: affordability and reliability, supporting U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence (AI), and accelerating energy infrastructure permitting. LaCerte noted that FERC recently approved 12 major natural gas projects adding significant transportation capacity to enhance grid reliability.
LaCerte also stressed that winning the AI race is a national priority with implications for the power grid. He mentioned FERC’s recent actions aimed at improving service for data centers co-located with generation facilities. Additionally, he criticized lengthy permitting processes that delay energy projects, citing the seven-year licensing process of the Goldendale Pumped Storage Project as an example.
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission plays a vital role in these efforts. For more information about this event or press inquiries, contact Seth Ricketts or Ben Mullany via email.
