House Bill No. 1343 introduces new regulations for the installation of electric energy storage equipment or facilities in Texas, specifically within the ERCOT power region. The bill mandates that any person, including electric cooperatives and municipally owned utilities, must obtain a permit from the Public Utility Commission of Texas before installing such equipment intended for wholesale energy sales. The bill outlines specific requirements for the permit application, including a description of the proposed location and type of equipment, as well as a statement identifying the primary first responder to potential fire incidents at the site. Additionally, the commission is tasked with ensuring that installations are located a safe distance from other facilities to mitigate fire risks and that they do not obstruct access to residential areas in case of emergencies.

Furthermore, the bill allows the commission to hold public meetings regarding permit applications if requested by a legislator or if there is significant public interest. It also establishes that the commission can delegate authority for these meetings and requires the adoption of a fee to cover the costs associated with the permitting process. The provisions of this bill will apply only to electric energy storage equipment or facilities that are interconnected to a transmission facility after the effective date of the Act, which is set for September 1, 2025.

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