President Trump on Wednesday signed an executive order declaring a national emergency over the “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the U.S. high-voltage electric grid. The measure targets foreign-made electrical equipment, particularly items that could provide remote access to foreign actors. The growing demand for electricity, driven by artificial intelligence and data centres, has amplified the risks.

(Staff: United States / Security & Energy)

President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14420 on Wednesday, 26 August 2026, declaring a national emergency regarding the threat to the security of the United States’ bulk-power system. The measure restricts the purchase and installation of certain foreign-made equipment considered critical to grid security.

What does the executive order entail?

The order targets electrical equipment that is part of the bulk-power system – the high-voltage electric grid and the generation resources needed for the overall system to function reliably. The equipment covered includes transformers, generators, metering equipment, and transmission lines rated at 69,000 volts or more.

The order does not ban all foreign equipment entirely. Instead, it establishes a framework under which certain equipment can be prohibited when it is deemed an operational risk or a threat to national security. The order specifically focuses on equipment that could provide foreign actors with remote access to critical grid infrastructure.

The stated motivation: rising demand and vulnerabilities

In the order, Trump states that the threat to the grid’s security has become “even more acute” in recent years. The rapid growth of advanced manufacturing, data centres, artificial intelligence, and defence production has increased the nation’s dependence on abundant, reliable electricity, magnifying the consequences of a successful attack or supply disruption.

The order also notes that certain foreign actors are “increasingly creating and exploiting vulnerabilities” in the U.S. electric system, which supports national defence, vital emergency services, critical infrastructure, and the economy.

What does the order not cover?

The White House has clarified that the order does not apply to facilities used for local electricity distribution. It also does not ban all foreign equipment but establishes a mechanism for evaluating and restricting those that pose a risk.

What happens next?

The order requires the Secretary of Homeland Security, the Director of National Intelligence, and other agency heads to publish rules or regulations within 120 days to clarify which suppliers and equipment are affected. Additionally, the energy secretary can require utilities and other infrastructure operators to make certain changes to existing systems.

Context: grid security, a strategic priority