WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump declared a national emergency Wednesday over foreign-made equipment in the U.S. electric grid, directing the government to restrict certain foreign components that could pose cybersecurity and national security risks.
Trump’s executive order blocks companies from buying, importing or installing certain foreign-made equipment used in the nation’s bulk-power system, which includes high-voltage transmission lines, substations and power plants.
The order cites growing demand for electricity from artificial intelligence data centers and other advanced technology projects. Trump said the increased dependence on reliable power makes the grid a greater target for hostile governments.
The order also warns that foreign-made equipment could contain digital “backdoors” that could allow another country to access, control or disable grid infrastructure.
The restrictions apply to countries subject to U.S. arms embargoes or sanctions and to governments the administration determines are acting against U.S. interests.
Trump’s order does not name China, but Chinese-made power-grid equipment has faced scrutiny from U.S. security officials.
The United States has previously restricted Chinese technology companies from participating in parts of its telecommunications infrastructure over national security concerns. U.S. regulators have blacklisted Chinese telecommunications companies Huawei and ZTE.
The administration has argued that equipment from companies subject to foreign government influence could create opportunities for espionage or sabotage.
The new order expands that approach to equipment used in the U.S. electric power system as demand for electricity continues to grow.
