Texas Senate Bill SB1210

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 2/24/23
• Out of Senate Committee: 4/11/23
• Voted on by Senate: 4/20/23
• Out of House Committee: 5/2/23
• Voted on by House: 5/5/23
• Governor Action: 5/19/23

Caption

Relating to the authority of the Railroad Commission of Texas to designate certain persons as the operator of an orphaned oil or gas well.

Impact

By enabling geothermal operators to adopt orphaned oil and gas wells, SB1210 is expected to facilitate a shift in how Texas approaches its energy production. With over 8,000 orphaned sites present in Texas, tapping into these resources could potentially enhance the reliability and diversity of the state’s energy grid. The bill represents a significant step towards modernizing the state's approach to resource management and energy generation, aligning with broader trends in renewable energy practices and conservation efforts.

Summary

Senate Bill 1210 (SB1210) seeks to address the issue of orphaned oil and gas wells in Texas by allowing geothermal energy production entities to adopt these abandoned wells. The bill authorizes the Railroad Commission of Texas to designate certain entities as operators of orphaned wells, enabling them to utilize these sites for energy conservation and production of dispatchable electricity. This repurposing of orphaned wells not only helps in managing previously abandoned resources but also supports the growth of the geothermal energy sector within the state.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB1210 appears positive, with endorsements from various stakeholders within the geothermal industry. Lawmakers noted the benefits of re-purposing underutilized resources to bolster energy production without the need for extensive new drilling operations. There was a sense of collaborative support among industries concerned with energy conservation and sustainability, suggesting a forward-thinking approach to managing the state's natural resources.

Contention

Despite its broadly supportive reception, some concerns were raised regarding the specifics of the bill's implementation, particularly in terms of regulatory oversight by the Railroad Commission. Questions about ensuring that the transition of these orphaned wells to geothermal operations will be managed responsibly and sustainably were discussed. Additionally, some critics expressed a need for robust monitoring to prevent potential environmental impacts that may arise from utilizing these previously abandoned sites.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Natural Resources Code

• Chapter 89. Abandoned Wells
  • Section: 047
  • Section: 047
  • Section: 047
  • Section: 047
  • Section: 047