The bill, S.B. No. 1519, proposes the addition of Section 35.154 to Subchapter E, Chapter 35 of the Utilities Code, which establishes a permitting process for the installation of electric energy storage equipment or facilities intended for wholesale energy sales in the ERCOT power region. Under this new section, individuals or entities must obtain a permit from the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) before proceeding with installation. The bill outlines specific requirements for permit applications, including providing detailed descriptions of the proposed location and equipment, notifying local fire departments, and ensuring that installations are located a safe distance from other facilities to mitigate fire risks.

Additionally, the bill mandates that the PUC adopt rules regarding the location of these facilities and allows for public meetings to be held if requested by local legislators or if there is significant public interest. The PUC is also authorized to impose a fee on permit applicants to cover the costs associated with the permitting process. The provisions of this section will apply only to electric energy storage equipment or facilities that are interconnected to a transmission facility after the bill's effective date of September 1, 2025.

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