This bill amends Section 7 of Title 27 of the Oklahoma Statutes, which pertains to the use of eminent domain for the provision of light, heat, or power through electricity or natural gas. The bill explicitly prohibits the use of eminent domain for the siting or construction of various renewable energy facilities, including hydroelectric energy facilities, battery storage facilities, hydrogen gas facilities, and other similar projects on private property. Additionally, it updates the language regarding the requirements for exercising eminent domain, stating that any entity seeking to exercise this right for electric transmission facilities rated over 300 kilovolts must obtain a Certificate of Authority from the Corporation Commission.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that Oklahoma retail electric suppliers or rural electric cooperatives are not required to secure a Certificate of Authority for any extensions, rebuilds, or upgrades to existing electric transmission facilities. The effective date for this legislation is set for November 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: