Trump Declares National Emergency Over Foreign Threats to U.S. Bulk-Power System

Executive Order 14421, signed August 26, 2026, declares a national emergency regarding foreign-supplied electric equipment used in the U.S. bulk-power system. The order restricts certain transactions involving equipment linked to designated Covered Foreign Entities and directs the Secretary of Energy to develop implementing rules. This measure concerns energy infrastructure security and is unrelated to visa or immigration processing.

Key points

• The order invokes IEEPA and the National Emergencies Act to address risks from foreign-made bulk-power system equipment.
• Certain transactions involving equipment from Covered Foreign Entities after the order's date are prohibited if they pose undue security risks.
• The Secretary of Energy, in consultation with other agencies, may require isolation, replacement, or removal of pre-existing equipment.
• The Secretary may pre-qualify certain vendors or equipment as exempt from the prohibitions.
• Implementing rules are due within 120 days, and recommendations to revise federal procurement regulations are due within 180 days.
• The order does not affect visa categories, filing forms, or immigration eligibility.

Who is affected

Manufacturers, suppliers, and operators of bulk-power system equipment, along with federal agencies involved in energy procurement.

What to do