Bill > SB159

This bill addresses the permitting of electrical substations in Delaware by providing retroactive approval for certain substation applications and establishing temporary zoning provisions. Specifically, the bill retroactively validates any electrical substation applications submitted on or after August 3, 2023, that comply with the Act's provisions, even if a county had previously taken adverse action against the application. The bill prohibits counties from altering zoning classifications or changing zoning codes to disqualify such applications. Additionally, the bill includes a sunset provision, meaning these special permitting provisions will automatically expire on December 31, 2026. However, any conditional use permits granted or deemed approved before the expiration date will remain valid, and pending applications that meet the Act's requirements will continue to be governed by its provisions. This legislation appears designed to facilitate the development of electrical infrastructure supporting large-scale renewable energy projects by creating a temporary, more streamlined approval process for electrical substations in heavy industrial zones.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://legis.delaware.gov/BillDetail?LegislationId=142363