Bill > SB2183

This bill modifies the Oklahoma Wind Energy Development Act by updating definitions, including "abandonment" to mean failure to generate electricity for 180 days instead of 24 months, and adding definitions for terms like "nonparticipating landowner" and "wind energy facility expansion." It also revises requirements for decommissioning wind energy facilities, mandating removal of components to a depth of 48 inches below grade and requiring property restoration within twelve months of decommissioning, and specifies that facilities must be decommissioned if a turbine ceases generating electricity for 180 continuous days or violates noise level restrictions. The bill changes financial security requirements, now linking them to permit applications and requiring updates every five years, and introduces a new requirement for a permit from the Corporation Commission (the state's regulatory body for utilities and energy) before constructing, operating, or redeveloping a wind energy facility or expansion, with specific criteria for permit applications including environmental and risk assessments, noise level limits, and setback requirements from nonparticipating landowners and residences. Furthermore, it mandates notification to executive agencies for comments on permit applications, requires public hearings, and establishes that most permit application information is public record, with an exception for proprietary information.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb2183&Session=2600