The electric utility sector is warning the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission against overreacting to an executive order from outgoing President Donald Trump aimed at fortifying the nation's bulk power system against foreign adversaries. Signed by Trump in May, the order prevents federal agencies and US persons from acquiring, transferring or installing bulk power system equipment that might pose an "unacceptable risk " to national security or public safety. Specifically, the order included a definition that encompasses a range of electrical equipment commonly used in substations, electric generators and control rooms. In response, FERC issued a notice of inquiry (RM20-19) in September that noted equipment or components manufactured by Huawei and ZTE — two Chinese firms already identified as national security threats by communications regulators and lawmakers — fall within the categories outlined in Trump's executive order.
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