Relating to the protection of critical components of the electric grid from damage from electromagnetic threats.

SB 1740 requires Texas' electric grid operators (specifically ERCOT) to protect critical infrastructure from electromagnetic threats like solar storms or EMP attacks. It mandates that new high-capacity substations and transformers built after September 1, 2025, must be designed to withstand 50 kilovolts/meter E1 pulses and 85 volts/kilometer E3 pulses. The bill also creates a grant program to fund protective upgrades for existing vulnerable components and establishes an account to finance these resilience efforts. These requirements directly affect utilities owning or operating substations, transformers, and other key grid infrastructure in Texas.