Relating to the authority of a gas or electric corporation to use certain land to construct or operate a transmission line.
Impact
The enactment of HB3853 would primarily affect utility companies and their operational protocols regarding land usage. By placing the financial burden of relocation on the corporations for certain land use cases, it seeks to ensure that the interests of environmental protection and water resource management are prioritized. This could lead to increased operational costs for utility companies, possibly affecting their pricing strategies and investment decisions in infrastructure.
Summary
House Bill 3853 addresses the authority of gas and electric corporations concerning the use of land for constructing and operating transmission lines. The bill seeks to amend Section 181.007 of the Utilities Code to clarify the responsibilities of these corporations when constructing transmission lines over land designated for reservoir construction in the state water plan. Specifically, the legislation stipulates that if a transmission line is built over land that had been previously earmarked as a site of unique value for constructing a reservoir, the corporation must cover the costs associated with removing, reconstructing, or relocating the transmission line if required.
Contention
Discussions around HB3853 may highlight concerns from stakeholders in the utility sector about the potential implications of the bill. Some may argue that imposing additional costs on utility companies could hinder investments in infrastructure improvements or innovations. Conversely, environmental advocates might see the bill as a necessary step to hold utility companies accountable for their impact on land designated for critical water resource projects, emphasizing the need for sustainable development practices.
Relating to the use of the electric generating facility fund to finance construction and maintenance of electric generating and transmission facilities in the ERCOT power region; authorizing an assessment.
Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy Insurance Program and other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.
Relating to the issuance or amendment of a certificate of public convenience and necessity that authorizes the construction of an electrical substation.
Relating to the construction of a meteorological tower near a federally owned or operated radar installation or military installation; providing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the operation of certain wind-powered devices near certain aviation facilities and the receipt of certain ad valorem tax incentives for property on which such devices are constructed or installed; authorizing an administrative penalty.