Conservative Leaders Bring State Voices to Washington to Advance Transmission and Permitting Reform

Energy advocates from across the country meet with Congress to push for common-sense reforms that strengthen America’s power grid

November 5, 2025 – WASHINGTON, D.C. – Conservative energy leaders from across the country are gathering on Capitol Hill today to advocate for transmission and permitting reform that will strengthen America’s electric grid, enhance reliability, and secure the nation’s energy future.

The Conservative Energy Network (CEN) and Grid Action organized more than 30 meetings with Members of Congress and key committees, bringing state leaders and policy experts together to share how outdated federal processes delay critical grid projects and drive up costs for American consumers.

“Conservatives know that modernizing the grid is about energy security, affordability, and national strength,” said John Szoka, CEO of the Conservative Energy Network. “Permitting reform isn’t a partisan issue – it’s a common-sense step toward making sure American-made energy can power American communities and industries.”

“This week’s fly-in brings our members to Capitol Hill with a clear message: America’s grid must evolve to meet the moment,” said Christina Hayes, Executive Director of Grid Action. “AI and other emerging industries are adding to record power demand, and we need modern transmission and permitting reform to move electricity efficiently, strengthen reliability, and keep costs down for consumers. Whether it’s establishing similar permitting pathways to pipelines or better defining benefits grid operators use to plan for the future, Congress can help deliver a grid to power America.”

Participants will also join a brief Capitol Hill press conference alongside congressional champions to highlight bipartisan support for reforming federal permitting laws and accelerating grid modernization.

CEN and Grid Action’s joint effort reflects growing conservative leadership on energy reliability and competitiveness – advancing reforms that empower states, reduce regulatory delays, and improve transmission planning and coordination across the country.

The Conservative Energy Network is a 501(c)(3) non-profit coalition of 26 state-based conservative clean energy organizations championing secure, reliable, affordable, clean American energy. Learn more at www.conservativeenergynetwork.org.