The bill establishes new regulations regarding the exercise of eminent domain for energy collector systems associated with commercial electricity generation in Wyoming. It introduces specific compensation standards for property that is condemned for such purposes, requiring that compensation be determined in accordance with existing laws. The bill mandates that entities seeking to condemn property must negotiate land use and compensation agreements with at least 66% of the landowners involved and provide proof of compliance to the court. Additionally, it stipulates that notice must be given to local governing bodies 30 days prior to any condemnation action, and it outlines requirements for existing easements related to energy collector systems.

Furthermore, the bill includes definitions pertinent to the energy collector systems and clarifies that certain public utilities and existing energy systems are exempt from these new regulations. It repeals a previous provision related to eminent domain and makes conforming amendments to existing laws. The act is set to apply to condemnation actions initiated on or after July 1, 2025, and it ensures that existing contracts and projects in the permitting process before this date are not affected. The effective date for the bill is also July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 1-26-502, 1-26-701, 1-26-815, 34-27-105
Engrossed: 1-26-502, 1-26-701, 1-26-815, 34-27-105