OK HB3173

Creates the "Well Repurposing Act" allowing the Corporation Commission or Department of Environmental Quality to authorize conversion of orphaned or abandoned oil and gas wells into energy storage or geothermal energy development facilities

Defines geothermal resources as natural earth heat exceeding 250°F, excluding oil, hydrocarbon gas, and standard geo-exchange heating/cooling systems used in buildings

Requires a new written surface damage agreement with the surface owner before any conversion activities can begin

Repurposed wells actively operating for energy storage or geothermal development are no longer classified as orphaned/abandoned and are considered wells used for beneficial purposes

Wells must be plugged and abandoned under state law if storage or geothermal operations cease for 12 months or longer; effective date November 1, 2026