The bill 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. It introduces a new definition for "geothermal energy conservation well," clarifying that it refers to a well used for energy retention to support dispatchable electricity generation for the power grid, while explicitly stating that such a well is not considered a battery energy storage resource.

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 demonstrating 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 bill 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)
House Committee Report: Natural Resources Code 89.047 (Natural Resources Code 89)