PROTECT the Grid Act

The PROTECT the Grid Act (S. 2593) would require the Secretary of Commerce, with other federal officials, to prepare a national security report on risks posed by foreign-adversary-controlled applications that can control high-wattage IoT devices in U.S. homes and businesses. It aims to reduce the risk that foreign-controlled apps and devices could manipulate electricity demand or disrupt the grid. The bill also codifies Executive Order 13873 into law, ensuring that its supply-chain security provisions apply to IoT devices tied to the electric grid. The ultimate goal is to identify vulnerabilities, assess potential impacts on grid stability and national security, and propose mitigation measures, including possible restrictions, labeling/certification, and other actions. The report due within 270 days would consider how widely high-wattage IoT devices are deployed, the risks posed by foreign-adversary-controlled apps, potential grid impacts, and feedback from industry and stakeholders. It could lead to actions such as federal procurement restrictions on certain products, mandatory certifications or labeling, and other safeguards, all designed to reduce foreign influence over devices that could affect the grid.