This bill establishes new regulations regarding the exercise of eminent domain for energy collector systems associated with commercial electricity generation in Wyoming. It introduces two new sections, W.S. 1-26-715 and W.S. 1-26-818, which outline compensation standards for condemned property, requiring that compensation be based on either the fair market value of the property rights taken or the difference in value of the property before and after the taking. The bill mandates that entities seeking to condemn property must negotiate land use and compensation agreements with at least 85% of the landowners involved and provide proof of compliance before proceeding with condemnation. Additionally, it specifies that existing easement agreements cannot be used to place additional energy collector systems without adhering to the new requirements.

The bill also repeals a previous provision that restricted condemnation authority for wind energy collector systems and makes conforming amendments to existing laws. It clarifies that the new regulations will apply to condemnation actions initiated on or after July 1, 2025, and ensures that existing contracts are not affected by the new law. The effective date for the bill is set for July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
25LSO-0101 v0.6: 1-26-502, 1-26-701, 1-26-815, 34-27-105