S. 5313 — Quantum-GUARD Act of 2026

This section defines terms used in the Act, including bulk-power system, Commission, Electric Reliability Organization, high-value IT or OT systems, information technology, operational technology, post-quantum cryptography, PQC sandbox, reliability standard, and Secretary.

This section directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to consider cybersecurity risks from quantum computers and potential uses of post-quantum cryptography in IT and OT systems when reviewing proposed reliability standards or modifications under section 215 of the Federal Power Act, and to take appropriate action based on that consideration.

This section establishes a PQC sandbox at the Department of Energy within 1 year of enactment. It authorizes collaboration with other federal agencies and requires a report within 3 years describing sandbox outcomes and recommendations to encourage PQC adoption by bulk-power system operators.

This section directs the Secretary, in consultation with the Electric Reliability Organization, to study cybersecurity risks to the bulk-power system from quantum computers, including risks to IT and OT systems and obstacles to post-quantum cryptography transitions. It requires recommendations for Commission actions to ensure reliable operations, correlation of systems with reliability impact categories, and submission of an unclassified report with possible classified annex to the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and House Energy and Commerce Committee within one year.