Energy

SB 460 establishes natural gas as the preferred fuel source for new fossil fuel electricity generation facilities in Oklahoma, requiring all new plants built after July 1, 2025, to use natural gas unless a generator can demonstrate to regulators that another fossil fuel better serves consumers. The bill amends Oklahoma law to create a "natural gas energy standard" that supplements renewable energy goals, specifically targeting new construction and added capacity at existing fossil fuel plants. This policy directly affects electricity generators planning new facilities or expansions, shifting the default fuel choice from other fossil fuels to natural gas. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, and was enacted as an emergency measure.

SB 352 prohibits utility companies from using eminent domain to build wind turbines, solar facilities, battery storage, or hydrogen gas facilities on private property. It also requires electricity providers to obtain a Corporation Commission certificate before using eminent domain for high-voltage transmission lines (over 300 kV). The bill directly affects utility companies seeking to expand infrastructure and private property owners whose land might be targeted for such projects. These changes amend Oklahoma’s eminent domain law (27 O.S. §7) to restrict certain facility siting and add oversight for major transmission projects. The bill was introduced in the 2025 Oklahoma Legislature and referred to the Energy and Natural Resources Oversight committee.

SB 239 modifies Oklahoma's tax credit for electricity generated by zero-emission facilities (like wind, solar, hydro, or geothermal power plants). It limits the credit to tax years ending by 2025, ending the ability to carry forward unused credits beyond that year. For credits claimed after July 2019, taxpayers must choose between receiving an 85% direct refund or carrying the credit forward for up to 10 years (ending in 2025). This bill directly affects businesses and entities generating eligible renewable electricity in Oklahoma, altering how they can use or access these tax credits.