Bill > SB279

This bill establishes a new regulatory process for electric transmission facility development in Oklahoma, requiring transmission developers to obtain a certificate of authority from the Corporation Commission before beginning construction. The bill defines key terms such as "electric transmission facility" (a high-voltage transmission line over 300 kilovolts) and "transmission developer" (any entity developing or owning such a facility). Developers must submit a comprehensive application including detailed route information, contact details, and identification of connected energy resources. The application process requires extensive public notification, including publishing notices in local newspapers, sending certified mail to county commissioners, surface landowners, and oil and gas operators, and holding a public meeting in the affected county. Developers must also provide proof of insurance, a safety plan, a decommissioning plan with financial surety, and demonstrate the project's public benefit. The Corporation Commission must issue a certificate of authority within 200 days, or the certificate will be automatically granted. The bill exempts rural electric cooperatives and local electric suppliers from these requirements when upgrading existing facilities. An emergency clause is included, meaning the law will take effect immediately upon passage, with a potential filing fee of up to $1,000 for the certificate of authority.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb279&Session=2600