The "Energy Affordability and Reliability Act of 2026" mandates the establishment of an Office of Energy Affordability within the Department of Energy's Office of Policy within 180 days of enactment. This new office is tasked with a critical oversight role concerning proposed regulations and policies that involve transitions between different energy types or sources. The primary duty of the Office is to rigorously review these proposals to ensure they incorporate transparent analysis of their short-term and long-term effects on energy affordability and related economic costs. It must also verify that policies include strategies to mitigate negative impacts on affordability, support reliable energy access for consumers, and promote cost-effective energy solutions, providing advice and guidance based on these findings. The Office is required to complete its review of each proposed regulation or policy within 30 days of receiving notice. Importantly, while it provides advice and guidance, the Office may not prevent the issuance of any regulation or policy. Additionally, the Office must submit annual reports to appropriate congressional committees, detailing its analysis of effects and recommendations for strategies to improve affordability, with a separate report on its overall effectiveness due within five years of its establishment.