Bill > HB1897

This bill establishes new requirements for the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) when considering applications for wind power facilities located within three marine leagues of the Texas coast in the Gulf of Mexico. The bill defines a "wind power facility" broadly to include wind turbine generators and supporting infrastructure like transmission lines, transformers, and battery storage facilities. Under the proposed law, the PUC cannot grant a certificate of convenience and necessity for such a facility if it determines the project might negatively impact established industries (such as shipping, tourism, or fishing), harm the environment by disrupting wildlife or migratory patterns, create safety risks for coastal residents or wildlife due to the area's vulnerability to natural disasters, or if existing electricity service is already adequate in the proposed service area. The bill will apply only to applications for which the PUC has not already issued a final order, and it is set to take effect on September 1, 2025. This legislation aims to provide additional scrutiny and protection for coastal regions when considering new wind power infrastructure.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB1897