; and (B) transmitting utilities by encouraging preconstruction financial commitments from project developers; and (2) to expedite transmission and renewable energy generation projects through Federal permitting processes. (b) Definitions In this section: (1) Commission The term Commission means the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. (2) Renewable energy project developer The term renewable energy project developer means an entity that is responsible for siting renewable energy generation projects, as identified by the Commission. (3) Secretary The term Secretary means the Secretary of Energy. (4) Zone The term zone means an interstate competitive renewable energy zone established under subsection (c)(1). (c) Renewable energy zones (1) Establishment Not later than 180 days after the date of conclusion of the consultation required under paragraph (2), after providing public notice and an opportunity to comment, the Commission, in coordination with the Secretary, shall establish zones, to be known as interstate competitive renewable energy zones , in accordance with the purposes described in subsection (a)— (A) to expedite— (i) the construction of interstate transmission facilities; and (ii) transmission facilities crossing 2 or more grid interconnections; and (B) to facilitate the deployment of renewable energy resources in areas in which renewable energy resources and suitable land areas are sufficient to develop generating capacity. (2) Consultation During the 2-year period beginning on the date of enactment of this section, the Commission, in coordination with the Secretary and the heads of other relevant Federal agencies, shall carry out appropriate consultation with States and Indian tribes (or any entity designated by a State or Indian tribe), Federal power marketing agencies, Transmission Organizations, transmitting utilities, and renewable energy project developers with respect to identifying appropriate locations for zones— (A) in accordance with the purposes described in paragraph (1)