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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Subcommittee on Energy advanced the Load Forecasting Enhancement Act (H.R. 9332), legislation introduced last week by Congressman Troy Balderson (OH-12) to help protect ratepayers and strengthen grid planning amid rapidly growing energy demand.

The United States is experiencing unprecedented growth in electricity usage, driven by expanding manufacturing, electrification, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. At the same time, the North American Electric Reliability Corporation's (NERC) 2025 Long-Term Reliability Assessment warns that much of North America faces a growing risk of energy shortfalls over the next five years, with PJM—the regional transmission organization serving Ohio—classified as “high risk.”

The Load Forecasting Enhancement Act would direct the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to convene regional joint boards with state public utility commissions to study and identify best practices for electric load forecasting. The legislation would also require FERC to report its findings and recommendations to Congress and encourage states to consider adopting improved forecasting procedures to support reliable, affordable electric service.

“Keeping the lights on starts with knowing how much power we'll need in the years ahead,” said Balderson. “Electricity demand is surging nationwide, and Congress is working to ensure our grid can keep pace while making energy affordable for families. This bipartisan bill will help states and utilities make better decisions and plan for future demand.”

In addition to directing FERC to develop recommendations for improving load forecasting, the legislation would amend the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA) to encourage state consideration of those recommendations. The bill would also update the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) to promote greater accuracy, oversight, and transparency in utility forecasting practices.

The Load Forecasting Enhancement Act now awaits consideration by the full House Energy and Commerce Committee.

Full text of the bill can be found HERE.