HB 3181

Abstract

Directs State Department of Energy and Department of Land Conservation and Development to convene work group to examine barriers, opportunities and other issues related to renewable energy and transmission project siting in Oregon. Directs departments to submit report on work group's findings and recommendations to interim committee of Legislative Assembly related to energy no later than September 15, 2024.] Appropriates moneys to departments, out of General Fund, for purposes of convening work group and carrying out duties related to examination and reporting.] Directs State Department of Energy and Department of Land Conservation and Development to establish Finding Opportunities and Reducing Conflict in Energy Siting process to identify locations best suited to site renewable energy or transmission development and ways to streamline or expedite siting process for renewable energy or transmission development. Establishes Finding Opportunities and Reducing Conflict in Energy Siting Advisory Committee to support process. Requires departments to contract with third party to report to interim committees of Legislative Assembly on work and recommendations of advisory committee not later than December 31, 2024. Requires State Department of Energy to maintain and periodically update renewable energy siting assessment tool. Permits each county in eastern Oregon to adopt, as part of county's comprehensive plan, mapped inventory of areas best suited for siting renewable energy facilities or transmission development corridors and to amend comprehensive plan or land use regulations to allow for expedited review of siting or development on inventoried lands. Directs Department of Land Conservation and Development to provide financial assistance to county and tribal governments to participate in advisory committee, update resource inventories and engage in other actions that support renewable energy or transmission development. Directs State Department of Energy to provide financial and technical assistance to public bodies, tribal governments and community organizations to participate in energy facility siting review process, Energy Facility Siting Council rulemaking process and advisory committee. Appropriates moneys to departments from General Fund for purposes of Act. Takes effect on 91st day following adjournment sine die.] Declares emergency, effective on passage.