As the United States faces growing energy demands, the importance of modernizing and expanding our nation’s energy infrastructure cannot be overstated. Permitting reform is increasingly recognized as a matter of national security and highlights a critical deficiency in the United States’ ability to get things done. This topic is particularly urgent for the U.S. military, whose readiness and operational capacity are closely tied to the resilience of the national grid. On December 12, 2024, SAFE’s Center for Grid Security hosted a critical discussion on permitting reform, with experts shedding light on how upgrading our permitting process can bolster grid reliability, enhance military readiness, and secure America’s energy future. The panelists included:
- Adam Goldstein, ESLC Co-Chair and Executive Chairman, KNNX Corp;
- Christina Hayes, Executive Director, Americans for a Clean Energy Grid;
- Admiral Michelle J. Howard (Ret.), 38th Vice Chief of Naval Operations; Former Commander, US Naval Forces Europe, US Naval Forces Africa, and Allied Joint Force Command Naples;
- John Szoka, Chief Executive Officer, Conservative Energy Network; and
- Moderated by: Avery Ash, Executive Director, Coalition for Reimagined Mobility and Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Special Initiatives, SAFE.
“Demand is not slowing down… and we have to accommodate this growing demand. If we don’t, we’re going to be in a time problem,” stated Szoka, underscoring the urgency of acting now. Szoka argued that waiting for a “perfect” bill is counterproductive, adding, “A good solution today is better than a perfect solution two years from now.” The stakes for permitting reform could not be higher. As Admiral Michelle J. Howard (Ret.) aptly put it, “How can we win a world war in four years, but it takes 11 years to get a transmission line up?” Energy infrastructure is the backbone of national security, economic stability, and technological advancement. Ultimately, permitting reform is a strategic investment in America’s future. A modernized grid will lower costs for consumers, support the clean energy transition, and fortify our military against threats ranging from natural disasters to cyberattacks. Although no legislation is perfect, EPRA is a pragmatic first step toward achieving the larger goal of energy security and resilience. As demand for electricity continues to grow, policymakers must act swiftly to pass legislation like EPRA, laying the groundwork for a safer, stronger, and more secure America.
