2025 Legislative Preview

How new bills could shape Oklahoma's Energy Future

by Tim Ferree

As Oklahoma’s 2025 legislative session unfolds, lawmakers are discussing key issues related to energy policies, property rights and the future of electricity in our state. This update is intended to inform you of what lawmakers are discussing that may affect members in the future. Rest assured, we are staying ahead of these issues as we meet regularly with the lawmakers who represent you at the Capitol.

Here are a few issues on the docket for the 60th legislative session.

Protecting Property Owners

Landowners’ rights are front and center in this session. Two proposed bills could bring major changes:

HB 2752—Sponsored by Representative Trey Caldwell, this bill would prohibit the use of eminent domain for wind farms, solar facilities, battery storage sites, hydrogen plants and other renewable energy projects. This measure aims to give property owners more control over their land.

HB 1263—Authored by Representative Neil Hays, this bill would prevent the construction of wind turbines within 1.5 nautical miles of homes, hospitals, public-use airports and 40 nautical miles of large lakes (10,000+ surface acres). Lawmakers hope these restrictions will balance renewable energy growth with community concerns.

SB 431 – Introduced by Senator Avery Frix, this bill would prevent utility companies from holding landlords responsible for unpaid utility bills left behind by tenants. Supporters argue this measure ensures landlords are not unfairly burdened with debt they did not incur, while opponents raise concerns about potential impacts on utility revenue collection.

Balancing Electricity And Natural Gas

Oklahoma’s energy industry relies on both electricity and natural gas, but a new bill could change how these two power sources compete:

SB 335—Introduced by Senator Grant Green, this bill would stop electric companies from offering ratepayer-funded rebates or incentives encouraging consumers to switch from natural gas to electricity. Supporters say this would create a level playing field, ensuring that natural gas remains a strong option for Oklahomans.

Strengthening Utility Worker Protections

A new bill aims to enhance legal protections for utility workers, making assaults against them a felony to ensure their safety.

HB 2883—The Utility Worker Protection Act of 2025 – This bill, introduced by Representative Mark Chapman, would classify assault or battery against a utility worker a felony. If passed, this law would provide stronger legal protections for workers who restore power, repair infrastructure and maintain essential services. The goal is to increase safety for those serving Oklahoma communities, especially during emergencies and disaster recovery efforts. 0636340529

Better Communication During Power Outages

When severe weather or grid failures cause outages, quick communication is critical. A new bill aims to improve how officials and utilities share information:

SB 618—Proposed by Senator Mary B. Boren, this bill would establish a statewide energy alert system, ensuring better coordination between electric providers and government agencies.

Other Energy Issues To Watch

Beyond specific bills, several big-picture discussions are taking place at the Capitol:

Leaving the SPP Grid—Some lawmakers question whether Oklahoma should leave the Southwest Power Pool (SPP), which manages electricity transmission for multiple states. While a complete departure is unlikely, concerns about wind energy expansion, federal incentives and transmission costs fuel the debate.

Expanding Natural Gas Power—Oklahoma’s major utilities, including OEC's wholesale power provider Western Farmers Electric Cooperative, OG&E—are increasing their use of natural gas to generate electricity. This shift is happening due to market demand rather than government mandates. Currently, 2,334 megawatts of new natural gas generation are being constructed or purchased. Oklahoma’s electric cooperatives remain strong supporters of the oil and gas industry and recognize the importance of using our state’s natural resources for reliable power.

The Rise of Data Centers and Bitcoin Mining – Energy-hungry industries like cryptocurrency mining and data centers are expanding across the state. Lawmakers are considering how these businesses will impact Oklahoma’s electricity grid and whether solutions like microgrids (small, local power systems) could help meet demand.

WHAT’S NEXT?

The 2025 legislative session will be crucial in shaping Oklahoma’s energy future. Lawmakers are making decisions that could affect your electricity rates, service reliability and the local economy. Oklahoma Electric Cooperative will keep you informed on key developments as these discussions continue.

By staying engaged, we can help ensure policies benefit our communities and support a diverse, reliable energy future for all Oklahomans. Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for being a valued part of the cooperative family!