This bill amends section 77-6203 of the Revised Statutes Cumulative Supplement, 2024, to establish a framework for designating counties in Nebraska as "American energy friendly counties." The designation aims to promote rural economic development and increase local tax revenue from privately developed renewable energy generation facilities. The bill outlines the process for counties to apply for this designation, which includes a resolution from the county board and the option to put the question to a vote among registered voters. Additionally, it specifies the requirements counties must meet to qualify, such as permitting renewable energy facilities by right in all zoning areas and not imposing excessive restrictions on their operation.

The bill also introduces a nameplate capacity tax for renewable energy generation facilities operating in designated counties, set at one and one-half times the standard rate. It establishes the American Energy Friendly Counties Fund to support counties in achieving this designation and outlines a grant program to reimburse eligible expenses incurred during the process. The bill includes provisions for the Department of Revenue to administer the tax and maintain records of designated counties and their generated tax revenue. Furthermore, it repeals the original section of the law to incorporate these changes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 77-6203