FERC is an independent federal agency that regulates the interstate transmission of electricity, natural gas and oil. Our jurisdiction also includes analyzing proposals to build liquefied natural gas terminals and interstate natural gas pipelines. Our team of technical professionals is shaping the future of the energy industry. These engineers, scientists, analysts and attorneys work collaborative
ly to ensure that the industry delivers reliable, efficient and sustainable energy, impacting the daily lives of all Americans. We regulate more than 1800 owners, operators and users of the bulk-power system, made up of almost 200,000 miles of transmission lines and generating more than 4.1 trillion kilowatts of electricity each year. Engineers review more than 1600 hydroelectric projects at more than 2500 dams, generating 54 gigawatts of hydroelectric capacity. To help support the modernization of the electric system here in the U.S., we are focusing on issues associated with a smarter grid. These include interoperability standards and mandatory reliability standards. While we encourage operators to adopt new standards, we also stand ready to enforce the rules – our enforcement powers include the power to fine companies up to $1 million per day per violation. We are not standing still, either. We continue to pursue energy market reforms that foster the development of renewable energy resources. We have approved more than 150 permits for hydrokinetic projects, working towards a future of renewable energies with the potential to generate cost-effective electricity while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
