HB517 Summary

• Removes the sunset provision from the Energy Security Act of 2015, making the act permanent instead of expiring on July 1, 2023.

• Grants incumbent electric suppliers the right to construct, own, operate, and maintain new electric transmission facilities (design voltage greater than 35,000 volts) that connect to their electric systems.

• Allows incumbent electric suppliers to upgrade existing electric transmission facilities they own in Alabama.

• Permits multiple incumbent electric suppliers to jointly construct transmission facilities connecting their systems, with ownership and benefits divided individually and proportionally unless otherwise agreed in writing.

• Prevents utilities from waiving their right to construct transmission facilities unless they obtain prior authorization from the Alabama Public Service Commission.