TX SB1979

Requires operators of renewable energy generation facilities (wind, solar, battery storage) to obtain permits from the Public Utility Commission before interconnecting to transmission facilities for wholesale energy sales

Establishes mandatory setback requirements: solar and battery storage facilities must be at least 500 feet from property lines and habitable structures; wind turbines must be at least twice the turbine height (including blades) from property lines, unless written waivers are obtained from affected property owners

Mandates fire safety standards for battery energy storage facilities based on UL Solutions, National Fire Protection Association, and International Fire Code standards, with required emergency operations plans and training offered to local fire departments

Requires facility operators to provide financial assurance (bonds or other security) to landowners covering decommissioning costs, with amounts determined by licensed engineers and updated every five years throughout the agreement term

Obligates grantees to remove all equipment, foundations, and buried cables to at least three feet below surface grade upon decommissioning, restore property with matching topsoil, and return land to tillable condition upon landowner request