TX
Texas House Bill HB1343

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1343

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to the issuance by the Public Utility Commission of Texas of a permit for the installation of certain electric energy storage equipment or facilities; authorizing a fee.

Impact

If passed, this legislation will modify existing regulations under the Utilities Code, specifically by adding requirements for the location and installation of electric energy storage facilities in the ERCOT power region. By mandating permits, the bill may enhance safety oversight and address concerns related to fire hazards. The establishment of a system for public meetings regarding permit applications is intended to increase transparency and community involvement in the permitting process, thereby fostering local engagement in energy initiatives.

Summary

House Bill 1343 aims to regulate the installation of electric energy storage equipment or facilities by requiring a permit issued by the Public Utility Commission of Texas. The bill outlines the procedures for applying for such permits and establishes criteria that must be met to ensure safety and compliance with state and federal law. A key provision is that the installations must be located at a sufficient distance from each other to mitigate fire risks, ensuring that a fire at one facility does not affect others or obstruct access to nearby residential areas.

Contention

The bill may evoke debate centered around the balance of fostering energy development within Texas while ensuring public safety. Supporters may argue that formal permitting creates necessary checks and fails to prevent disasters, while detractors could voice concerns over potential bureaucratic delays and the impact on innovation in energy storage solutions. Moreover, the inclusion of authorizing fees for permits might also draw criticism regarding the additional costs imposed on developers and utilities seeking to expand their capabilities.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Utilities Code

  • Chapter 35. Energy Providers
    • Section: New Section

Latest HB1343 Activity

Companion Bills

TX SB1519

Identical Relating to the issuance by the Public Utility Commission of Texas of a permit for the installation of certain electric energy storage equipment or facilities; authorizing a fee.

Previously Filed As

TX HB4971

Relating to the permitting of battery storage system facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.

TX SB624

Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.

TX HB3707

Relating to the permitting of renewable energy generation facilities by the Public Utility Commission of Texas; authorizing fees.

TX HB4573

Relating to the issuance of a permit by the commissioner of the General Land Office for a wind power facility on coastal public land; authorizing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB1303

Relating to the issuance of a permit by the commissioner of the General Land Office for a wind power facility on coastal public land; authorizing a fee; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB6

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy Insurance Program and other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.

TX SB1030

Relating to the regulation of bulk-power system equipment by the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

TX HB1500

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX SB2070

Relating to the funding of projects by the Public Utility Commission of Texas to promote the reliability and resiliency of the power grid in this state; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds.

TX HB2049

Relating to the issuance of a permit by the Public Utility Commission of Texas for the routing of certain oil or gas pipelines; authorizing administrative penalties.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.