August 6, 2026
Mr. Blumenthal introduced the following bill; which was read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources
To amend the Federal Power Act to require the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to consider the effects of Commission-jurisdictional rates on the affordability of electricity for consumers, and for other purposes.
Section 1. Short title
This Act may be cited as the Affordable Electricity Rates Act of 2026
.
Sec. 2. Consideration of effects of rates on consumer affordability
Section 201 of the Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 824) is amended by adding at the end the following:
(h) Affordability as a component of just and reasonable rates
(1) In general
In making any determination of whether a rate or charge is just and reasonable under this part, the Commission shall—
(A)
consider whether the rate or charge is likely to result in retail electricity prices that are unaffordable for electric consumers (as defined in section 3 of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2602)); and
(B)
presume that the rate or charge is likely to result in retail electricity prices that are unaffordable for electric consumers (as so defined) if the Commission determines that the rate or charge is likely to result in an increase in retail electricity prices of 5 percent or more.
(2) Unaffordable rates and charges prohibited
If the Commission determines under paragraph (1) that a rate or charge is likely to result in retail electricity prices that are unaffordable for electric consumers (as defined in section 3 of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (16 U.S.C. 2602)), such rate or charge shall not be considered to be just and reasonable for purposes of this part.