Bill > HB2898

This bill modifies requirements for meteorological evaluation towers (MET towers), which are structures used to assess wind resources for potential wind turbine locations. The bill expands existing law by requiring anyone planning to erect a MET tower to provide detailed notice to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) at least 30 days before construction, including information such as the tower's location, height, owner contact details, and proposed construction date. The bill also mandates that TxDOT must then share this notice with nearby federally owned radar installations and military aviation training facilities within 50 nautical miles, as well as county judges in those areas and adjacent counties within 25 miles. Additionally, the bill increases the maximum base diameter of these towers from six to 12 feet and requires tower owners to notify TxDOT of any changes to the originally submitted information. The legislation aims to improve coordination and awareness around the placement of these wind resource assessment structures, particularly near military facilities, and gives TxDOT more oversight in tracking and regulating their construction. The bill will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2898