During a recent government meeting, discussions centered on the critical relationship between natural gas reliability and electric sector stability. Chairman Phillips emphasized that the electric grid's reliability is fundamentally linked to the performance of its least reliable components, particularly natural gas infrastructure.

Concerns were raised regarding the absence of mandatory reliability standards for natural gas, which studies indicate is particularly vulnerable to failures during extreme weather events, such as winter storms. These vulnerabilities can lead to significant outages, impacting the overall reliability of the electric supply.

Phillips highlighted the urgent need for Congress to consider legislation that would establish reliability standards for natural gas systems. He pointed to past incidents, specifically referencing winter storm Uri, as evidence of the potential consequences of inadequate gas reliability on the electric grid. The Chairman underscored that ensuring the reliability of the gas supply is essential for maintaining a stable and dependable electric system.

The meeting underscored the importance of proactive measures to safeguard energy infrastructure, as the interdependence of gas and electric reliability becomes increasingly critical in the face of climate-related challenges.