U.S. declares national emergency to address bulk-power system security amid AI-related threats

The Biden administration issued an emergency declaration under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act to address vulnerabilities in the U.S. bulk-power system, citing risks from automated systems and artificial intelligence-driven threats. The order, titled 'Declaring a National Emergency To Secure the United States Bulk-Power System,' was published in the Federal Register on August 31, 2026.

The declaration grants the U.S. Energy Secretary authority to regulate or prohibit transactions involving bulk-power system electric equipment, including prohibiting the acquisition, importation, transfer, or installation of such equipment if it poses an undue risk to national security. The order explicitly references risks associated with automated systems and artificial intelligence as part of the justification for the emergency measures.

The emergency declaration is framed as a response to 'unusual and extraordinary threats' to the bulk-power system, which the administration states are exacerbated by the rapid advancement and integration of automated technologies, including AI systems. The order does not specify particular AI models, vendors, or technologies but frames the risk in general terms related to automated decision-making and supply chain vulnerabilities.

The Energy Secretary is directed to issue regulations or orders as necessary to implement the declaration, including the power to identify, license, or mandate mitigation measures for bulk-power system equipment. The order also authorizes the Secretary to establish a process for reviewing and approving or disapproving transactions involving bulk-power equipment.