Bill > HB4353

This bill requires voter approval for wind, solar, or energy storage facilities in counties with populations over 10,000 that intend to sell energy or ancillary services at wholesale. Specifically, the bill mandates that a proposed facility cannot be constructed or installed without first receiving majority approval in a county-wide election. Developers can request that the county commissioners court hold an election on the proposed facility, and if such an election is held, the ballot must include a detailed description of the facility and allow separate votes if multiple facilities are proposed. After voter approval, the county commissioners court gains the ability to regulate the construction, installation, and operation of the facility. The bill also specifies that facilities constructed before September 1, 2025, are exempt from the voter approval requirement. The legislation defines key terms by referencing existing utility code definitions for wind power facilities, solar power facilities, and ancillary services, and it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Government Affairs

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4353