Bill > SB596

This bill establishes a comprehensive state energy policy for Arkansas with multiple key objectives. The legislation creates a framework that prioritizes developing an adequate, affordable, reliable, and secure electric generation and transmission system. It aims to remove policy barriers to diverse electric generation, foster innovation, and reduce dependence on international energy sources. The bill specifically regulates the retirement of dispatchable electric generation facilities (power plants that can generate electricity on demand, such as those using water, coal, natural gas, geothermal, biomass, or nuclear power) by requiring public utilities to obtain approval from the Arkansas Public Service Commission before retiring any facility over 100 megawatts. There is a strong presumption against retiring such facilities, and utilities must demonstrate that any retirement is in the public interest by proving they will replace the facility with equally or more capable dispatchable resources, avoid harming ratepayers, and ensure grid reliability. The bill also encourages promoting energy education, developing a secure energy supply chain, maintaining stable consumer prices, and supporting local economic development. An emergency clause is included, highlighting the urgency of managing electric generating resources to protect employment, tax revenue, and utility rates.

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https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb596&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R