Hernández Introduces Puerto Rico Energy Generation Crisis Task Force Act

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Puerto Rico Resident Commissioner Pablo José Hernández introduced the Puerto Rico Energy Generation Crisis Task Force Act, legislation addressing the urgent energy generation deficit threatening the island’s power grid. The bill establishes a dedicated task force of federal and local government entities to improve coordination and ensure more effective management of Puerto Rico’s fragile energy system.

“Puerto Rico’s energy generation crisis is a growing threat to our daily lives and economic future. With hurricane season fast approaching, we cannot afford disjointed efforts or poor communication between the entities responsible for keeping the lights on,” said Hernández. “This task force will bring everyone to the table – federal agencies, Puerto Rico’s leadership, and private operators – to foster accountability, improve transparency, and deliver real solutions for the people of Puerto Rico.”

Puerto Rico is currently facing an energy generation shortfall estimated between 700 and 850 megawatts. The recent breakdown of a key generator at the Central Aguirre plant, which remains offline for repairs, has further strained the grid and heightened concerns about widespread outages.

Following meetings with LUMA Energy and Genera PR during the March 17 District Work Week, it became clear that while both entities are aware of the challenges ahead, there is an urgent need for stronger coordination among federal agencies, private operators, and the Government of Puerto Rico.

The Puerto Rico Energy Generation Crisis Task Force Act would:

• Establish a dedicated task force consisting of federal and local leaders involved in energy generation and distribution;
• Mandate monthly meetings of the task force to foster better communication and alignment;
• Require periodic reporting from the task force to the President of the United States and to Congress to ensure transparency and progress tracking.

The task force will include representatives appointed by:

• The U.S. Secretary of Energy (1 member);
• The U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, through FEMA (1 member);
• The Chief of Engineers of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (1 member);
• Puerto Rico’s Office of the Energy Czar (1 member);
• The Government of Puerto Rico, to represent the responsibilities and obligations of LUMA Energy, Genera PR, and the Puerto Rico Energy Bureau (3 members).

Importantly, the structure of the task force ensures that the Government of Puerto Rico maintains majority representation, with four out of seven members appointed from Puerto Rico. This design reflects the bill’s intention to empower the local government, not diminish its authority.

The Resident Commissioner has consistently raised awareness among his Congressional colleagues and the President about the severe energy crisis in Puerto Rico. In March, during a speech on the House floor, the Resident Commissioner called for transparent action from the Puerto Rico government as the island faces an impending energy crisis that could lead to up to 125 power outages over the next six months. Earlier, on February 10, the Resident Commissioner wrote to the President urging the declaration of a federal emergency over Puerto Rico’s electric grid crisis, in line with the Puerto Rico Governor’s request, and underscored his concerns in a House floor speech.

Click HERE to view legislative text.

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