New Delhi, August 27: US President Donald Trump has signed an Executive Order aimed at protecting the security, integrity and reliability of bulk-power system electric equipment used in the United States, particularly from interference by foreign actors. The order declares a national emergency under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and the National Emergencies Act over what it describes as an unusual and extraordinary foreign threat involving bulk-power systems produced abroad that may present national security vulnerabilities.
To address the threat to US national security, foreign policy and the economy, the order generally prohibits the purchase or installation of certain foreign-produced bulk-power system electric equipment, including associated critical software and digital capabilities that could pose cybersecurity or operational risks. Such purchases and installations may also be subject to conditions to address those risks.
The order focuses on transactions involving foreign nationals that could create an undue risk of sabotage, unauthorised access or disruption, as well as risks to the security or resilience of US critical infrastructure. It does not apply to facilities used for the local distribution of electric energy.
It also authorises the Secretary of Energy, in consultation with other Cabinet members, to impose conditions on the continued use and operation of such equipment. The Secretary has further been directed to issue rules implementing the order and identify equipment that may pose the risks outlined in it.
