1、CRS INSIGHTElectric Grid Physical Security: Recent LegislationJanuary 6, 2016 (IN10425) | Related AuthorPaul W. Parfomak |Paul W. Parfomak, Specialist in Energy and Infrastructure Policy (pparfomakcrs.loc.gov, 7-0030)IntroductionThe U.S. electric grid consists of over 200,000 miles of high voltage t
2、ransmission lines and hundreds of high voltage (HV) transformer substations. Due to their size and location these critical assetsespecially the transformersare vulnerable to physical damage from theft, vandalism, or terrorist attack. The Fixing Americas Surface Transportation (FAST) Act (P.L. 114-94
3、), which became law on December 4, 2015, contains provisions to facilitate recovery during electric grid emergencies due to physical damage and other causes. A Senate bill (S. 2012) could also expand efforts to protect the grid from physical threats.The vulnerability of the electric grid to natural
4、events or malicious acts has been a long-standing policy concern. A particular focus has been on HV transformers. Such transformers are very difficult to restore when damaged because they can take over a year to manufacture and are hard to move. Over the years, the utility industry and government ag