This bill establishes new regulations regarding the exercise of eminent domain specifically for energy collector systems associated with commercial electricity generation facilities. It introduces two new sections, W.S. 1-26-715 and 1-26-818, which outline the compensation standards for condemned property and the requirements for exercising eminent domain. Notably, the bill mandates that any entity, other than a public utility with a certificate of public convenience and necessity, must negotiate land use and compensation agreements with at least 85% of the landowners before proceeding with condemnation. Additionally, it requires proof of compliance with these agreements and the viability of the associated commercial facility in any condemnation complaint.

The bill also makes several amendments to existing laws, including the deletion of certain sections and the introduction of new definitions. It repeals a previous provision in W.S. 1-26-815 and clarifies that compensation for condemned property must be equivalent to the average consideration given to other landowners or the fair market value if there are two or fewer landowners involved. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, and applies to all eminent domain actions initiated on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
24LSO-0113 v0.6: 1-26-502, 1-26-701, 1-26-815, 34-27-105