Bill No. 1374 amends the definition of "public utility" in Oklahoma law to clarify that certain entities involved in the production of electricity for green hydrogen are exempt from being classified as public utilities. Specifically, the bill states that corporations, associations, or individuals engaged in producing electricity solely for their own use, or for affiliates or tenants involved in green hydrogen production, will not be considered public utilities, provided they do not resell the electricity for public use. The bill also emphasizes that these entities must still comply with state and federal regulations regarding grid interconnection and registration.
Additionally, the bill removes previous provisions that allowed certain corporations in Washington County to sell surplus electrical energy or water without being classified as public utilities. It introduces new language stating that public utilities are not obligated to serve customers receiving electric service from these exempt entities. Furthermore, any projects under this act must incorporate a natural gas component in their power generation capacity. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 17-151
House Committee Substitute: 17-151
Floor (House): 17-151
Engrossed: 17-151