The U.S. Department of Energy has delayed the implementation of a controversial rule that would eliminate longstanding permitting requirements for international electric transmission projects.
The rule, issued by DOE’s Grid Deployment Office in May, was set to take effect on July 14. But the agency announced Monday it is pushing the effective date back to September 12 to evaluate the adverse comments submitted during the public comment period.
At issue is DOE’s decision to axe regulations that govern the application process for a Presidential Permit — a requirement for any entity seeking to construct, operate, or maintain electric transmission lines that cross the U.S. border.
The process required applicants to undergo environmental review under the National Environmental Policy Act and shoulder associated costs.
DOE argued in the original rule that these requirements “impose economic, administrative and procedural burdens on applicants” and hinder President Trump’s policy goal of “unleashing American energy,” as outlined in his similarly titled executive order.
Under the now-delayed rule, DOE would no longer require applicants to file with the Economic Regulatory Administration or fund environmental assessments or impact statements unless specific exemptions apply.
In a Federal Register notice published Monday, DOE said it would consider the significant adverse comments before deciding whether to withdraw the rule entirely or issue a revised version that addresses public concerns.
