The bill amends sections of the Code of West Virginia to alleviate regulatory burdens on utility companies involved in electric power generation and transmission. It introduces a waiver for the requirement to obtain a certificate of public convenience and necessity for projects deemed technically feasible by the Infrastructure and Jobs Development Council. Additionally, the bill reduces the maximum decision period for the Public Service Commission on applications from 270 days to 180 days for most applications, and from 400 days to 270 days for projects costing between $100 million and $750 million. A new timeline of 360 days is established for projects costing $750 million or more. Utilities are also permitted to maintain or replace existing transmission facilities without needing a new certificate, as long as they comply with existing certificates.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes the commission's authority in evaluating siting certificate applications, ensuring a balance between public interests and local economic impacts. It establishes the commission's ongoing jurisdiction over siting certificate holders for compliance and modification requests, with mechanisms for enforcing compliance, including civil and criminal penalties. The legislation also allows for the transfer of siting certificates while ensuring that the commission's orders remain applicable to transferees. Overall, the bill aims to streamline the regulatory process while safeguarding public interests in the development of electric facilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 24-2-11, 24-2-11a, 24-2-11c