Tennessee House Bill HB2316

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26
• Refer: 2/5/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 7 and Title 65, relative to threats to electrical assets.

Impact

Under the provisions of HB2316, every covered entity is required to conduct a thorough technical assessment of their equipment by January 1, 2027. This assessment must evaluate each transformer’s vulnerability to GICs, taking into consideration factors such as transformer age, loading conditions, and susceptibility to various impacts caused by GICs. Each entity must submit a detailed report that includes specific transformer data and recommendations to mitigate risks associated with GIC exposure, promoting enhanced reliability and protection of the electrical grid.

Summary

House Bill 2316 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated to address vulnerabilities of critical electrical infrastructure to geomagnetically induced currents (GICs). The bill includes specific definitions for 'covered entities' and 'covered equipment', which encompass electric utilities and their equipment with significant voltage and capacity thresholds. It establishes a framework for assessing the vulnerability of transformers and related equipment to these GICs, which may arise from natural disturbances or other high-altitude electromagnetic events.

Contention

The bill has raised concerns regarding the effectiveness and feasibility of the required assessments and subsequent recommendations. Critics of the legislation may argue that the imposed regulations could create an administrative burden for smaller utility operators. Additionally, the bill's focus on technical assessments and requirements for reporting may elicit debate over the extent of state oversight versus the operational autonomy of individual utilities. The balance between ensuring public safety and maintaining operational flexibility will be a key point of contention among stakeholders.