S.B. No. 1762 amends the Natural Resources Code to enhance the authority of the Railroad Commission of Texas regarding the designation of operators for orphaned oil or gas wells. The bill introduces the term "geothermal energy conservation well," which is defined as a well used for retaining energy for dispatchable electricity generation, clarifying that it is not considered a battery energy storage resource. This new definition replaces the previous term "Energy conservation well."

Additionally, the bill outlines the criteria under which the commission will designate a person as the operator of a well. This includes the requirement for the individual to submit a factually supported claim to a continuing possessory right in the mineral estate, geothermal energy estate, or geologic space accessed by the well, along with a completed certificate of compliance and a nonrefundable fee of $250. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Natural Resources Code 89.047 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Senate Committee Report: Natural Resources Code 89.047 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Engrossed: Natural Resources Code 89.047 (Natural Resources Code 89)
House Committee Report: Natural Resources Code 89.047 (Natural Resources Code 89)
Enrolled: Natural Resources Code 89.047 (Natural Resources Code 89)