At least three bills affecting the Oklahoma Corporation Commission and public utilities go before an Oklahoma House Committee on Tuesday. One is an attempt to closely follow Corporation Commission activities with the Southwest Power Pool and to track votes and travel expenses.
HB2155, by Rep. Mike Dobrinski, Okeene, and known as the Renewable Energy Faccility Act, would require the Corporation Commission to be responsible for creating rules control the development of renewable energy operations for “the purpose of protecting the interests and property of the citizens of this state.” The rules would apply to wind energy, solar energy, battery storage,
hydrogen energy, or other renewable energy source.
Another measure to be considered in committee is HB1662 by Rep. Josh Cantrell of Kingston. His bill would track travel by Corporation Commissioners and others in the state agency in business matters with the Southwest Power Pool.
“The Oklahoma Corporation Commission is hereby required to
prepare and submit an annual report detailing all activities and
actions undertaken by any representative of the Commission in
dealings with the Southwest Power Pool,” proposed Rep. Cantrell.
Under his bill, the Commission would have to provide a detailed account of all trips taken by Commission representatives in matters involving the SPP, including the purpose, location and costs of such trips. He also wants a record of all meetings including dates, locations and subject matters discussed. The bill also requires a comprehensive summary of all votes taken by Commission representatives regarding SPP matters.
Another bill, HB1374 by Rep. Brad Boles, focuses on electricity providers and the use of eminent domain. It lays out an exception for operations in Washington County.