27 January 2005 - The US government needs to upgrade its electric transmission system to meet consumer demand and prevent further blackouts, according to a report published by the Consumer Energy Council of America (CECA).

CECA president, Ellen Berman, said: "The challenges confronting the transmission system are real, imminent, and consequential, as evidenced by the 14 August, 2003 blackout. To keep the power flowing, we are issuing a broad call for action to government leaders and industry."

The report found that coordinated regional planning, consumer input in decision making, clearly established jurisdictional boundaries between federal and state regulators, and mandatory reliability standards are critical elements in ensuring that the nation's electricity needs are met.

A group of senior executives and leading experts from industry, government, and the public sector announced the results of the consensus strategy to improve the nation's electricity system.

David Owens, executive vice president, Edison Electric Institute, said: "Legislation to reinforce reliability coupled with a clear, consistent, and durable regulatory framework which recognizes regional differences is essential to enhance the transmission system."