Securing the United States Bulk-Power System

2020-05-04Executive Order 13920
Signed by: Donald Trump
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Headline: Prohibits Foreign-Controlled Equipment in United States Power Grid

What it does: Agencies must block and review transactions involving bulk-power equipment tied to foreign adversaries and the Secretary of Energy must issue rules and mitigation measures.

Real World Impact:
  • Blocks new imports and installations of identified foreign-made power equipment.
  • Requires agencies to change procurement and screening for energy infrastructure purchases.
  • Creates a task force to recommend procurement rules and report to the President.
Topics: power grid security, procurement policy, national security, critical infrastructure, energy procurement

Summary

This order declares a national emergency to protect the United States power grid from foreign threats and restricts foreign-controlled equipment. It bars acquisitions, imports, transfers, or installations of bulk-power system electric equipment tied to foreign adversaries when the Secretary of Energy finds unacceptable security risks.

The Secretary of Energy will publish rules, identify risky equipment and vendors, and may negotiate mitigation measures. The order also creates a task force to recommend consistent procurement policies and submit reports to the President and procurement regulators.

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