Texas Senators Investigate Foreign-Linked Supply Chain Risks in Critical Infrastructure
Texas senators held an interim hearing to examine potential security vulnerabilities in the state's electric grid and other critical infrastructure linked to foreign technology. The Senate Committee on Business and Commerce focused on the integrity of the supply chain, particularly concerning equipment tied to hostile foreign entities like China, Russia, and Iran. The hearing addressed the growing role of solar panels and battery storage in the Texas grid, which are heavily dependent on equipment made in China. Witnesses highlighted concerns about software connectivity and remote access, which could allow manipulation or disruption of the grid. Texas has legal frameworks like the Lone Star Infrastructure Protection Act to restrict agreements involving critical infrastructure with foreign-linked companies.