Several energy and utility-related bills failed to get final consideration during the pressure packed last few days of June. Among them:
• HB 1290 – authorizes DGS to allow a State agency to test a technology, product or process for energy conservation and energy efficiency by using it in the agency’s operations on a 30 to 60 day trial basis.
• HB 1904 – establishes by state law that under the agreement from PA that allowed the US government to acquire land for creation of the Allegheny National Forest, the feds were not given authority to pass laws or implement rules over privately held and state owned mineral and water rights. It also clarifies that no federal law or rule can invalidate or modify PA law regarding the storage, use or control of water resources, or the development, use or ownership of mineral resources.
• HB 1755 – Title 66, the owner of an alternative energy system or a customer-generator owns any and all alternative energy credits associated with or created by the production of electric energy. However, the owner or customer shall be entitled to sell or transfer the credits. The bill makes this provision retroactive.
• HB 1926 – defines natural gas pipeline corporations and natural gas gathering line corporations, and amends Titles 15 and 66 to prohibit natural gas gathering line companies from using their eminent domain powers to gain rights of way on public land and to modify certain definitions.
• SB 367 – the Indigenous Mineral Resources Development Act, authorizes the Department of General Services to contract or lease for the: mining or removal of valuable coal, oil, natural gas, coal bed methane, limestone and mineral resources under Commonwealth land and to convey Commonwealth rights to mineral resources, including lands under property owned by the State System of Higher Education. The bill also provides for distribution of lease and royalty income from agreements under State System lands.
These bills were tabled for consideration when the House and Senate return September 24. The General Assembly is expected to meet for three weeks this fall prior to the election.