Statehouse — Senate Enrolled Act 9, which was authored by State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg), has been signed into law by Governor Eric Holcomb.
The new law authorizes the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) to adopt a review process for when a public utility producing at least 80 megawatts requests to retire, sell or transfer an electric generation facility.
“As technology advances, our state must ensure it can withstand the high energy demand,” Leising said. “This bill simply helps the state continue to support Indiana businesses’ and households’ energy needs until we have better battery storage.”
When considering a public utility’s intention to relieve ownership of an electric generation facility, the IURC must examine its impact on state and local energy needs.
Accelerated depreciation is not permitted on early closures unless there is a catastrophic event to the generation plant.
“Making sure residents can turn their lights on and keep their refrigerators cold is important, which is why SEA 9 helps the state better prepare for and prevent potential brownouts and blackouts,” Leising said. “I am pleased this bill was signed into law and look forward to seeing its positive impact on our energy grid’s sustainability.”
SEA 9 is supported by the Indiana Energy Association and IURC and was sponsored in the Indiana House by State Rep. Randy Frye (R-Greensburg).
Original story published March 21, 2023 —
Statehouse — A bill authored by State Sen. Jean Leising (R-Oldenburg) that would ensure better utility reliability across the state passed the House of Representatives on Monday.
Senate Enrolled Act 9 would authorize the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission (IURC) to adopt a review process for when a public utility producing at least 80 megawatts requests to retire, sell or transfer an electric generation facility.
“There are many reasons why Indiana should be concerned about electric generation facilities closing prematurely,” Leising said. “With residents’ increasing need for electricity, this bill would ensure the state can support the high demand until we have better battery storage.”
When considering a public utility’s intention to relieve ownership of an electric generation facility, the IURC must examine its impact on state and local energy needs. Accelerated depreciation will not be permitted on early closures unless there is a catastrophic event to the generation plant.
The bill will now move to the governor’s desk for further consideration.
To learn more about the bill, visit iga.in.gov.
(State Senator Jean Leising press release)
