Bill No. 915, introduced by Senators Green and Boles, establishes new regulations for commercial solar energy facilities in Oklahoma. It defines key terms such as "commercial solar energy facility" and "distributed generation," and mandates that any newly constructed commercial solar facilities on land leased from the Commissioners of the Land Office must adhere to specific construction standards. These standards include installation height, spacing between solar panel rows, distance from residential dwellings, and measures to prevent soil erosion. Additionally, the bill requires the Commissioners of the Land Office to make annual payments in lieu of ad valorem taxes to counties where these facilities are located.
The bill also stipulates that leasing agreements between solar facility operators and landowners must include certain provisions related to the construction standards, although landowners can choose to exclude them. The Corporation Commission is tasked with enforcing these regulations and has the authority to create necessary rules, including the assessment of fines and fees. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and an emergency clause is included to ensure its immediate implementation upon passage.