House Bill No. [insert number] introduced by Representative Coates aims to regulate renewable energy development in Louisiana by enacting new provisions under Chapter 12 of Title 30 of the Louisiana Revised Statutes. The bill establishes two parts: Part I focuses on renewable energy storage, specifically requiring operators to obtain permits from the Department of Energy and Natural Resources (DENR) before installing batteries for energy storage. Additionally, it mandates that no permit will be issued without proof of financial security and a decommissioning plan, and it authorizes the secretary of the department to create necessary regulations for implementation.

Part II of the bill addresses wind energy, stipulating that no onshore wind project can be constructed or completed without a permit from the DENR, also contingent upon proof of financial security and a decommissioning plan. The overarching goal of the bill is to ensure that renewable energy projects are developed responsibly and with adequate financial and environmental safeguards in place.