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HB 1775

relative to utility ownership of natural gas and nuclear power generation facilities.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kevin Avard and 2 co-sponsors

HB 1775: Utility Ownership of Natural Gas and Nuclear Power Generation Facilities OverviewBill Number: HB 1775 Title: Relative to utility ownership of natural gas and nuclear powe

Enrolled Adopted, VV, (In recess 06/04/2026); SJ 15
0
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Bill Summary · HB 1775

HB 1775: Utility Ownership of Natural Gas and Nuclear Power Generation Facilities

Overview

Bill Number: HB 1775
Title: Relative to utility ownership of natural gas and nuclear power generation facilities
Status: To Be Introduced 01/07/2026 and referred to Science, Technology and Energy HJ 1
Introduced: January 08, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary goal of HB 1775 is to address concerns around utility ownership and control of natural gas and nuclear power generation facilities. The bill aims to promote greater competition, transparency, and consumer protections in the energy sector by limiting the ability of utilities to own and operate these types of power plants.

Key Provisions

  • Prohibits electric and natural gas utilities from owning, operating, or having a financial interest in any natural gas or nuclear power generation facilities
  • Requires utilities to divest from any existing natural gas or nuclear power generation assets within 5 years of the bill's enactment
  • Establishes an independent system operator (ISO) to manage the state's electric grid and oversee power generation and transmission
  • Mandates that all power generation, including natural gas and nuclear, be procured through a competitive bidding process overseen by the ISO
  • Directs the state public utilities commission to develop new regulations and rate structures to ensure fair and transparent pricing for consumers

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Electric and natural gas utilities would be required to restructure their operations and divest from power generation assets
  • Independent power producers and renewable energy companies would have increased opportunities to compete in the state's energy market
  • Consumers could potentially see changes in electricity and natural gas rates, with the goal of greater affordability and choice
  • The state's energy grid and power supply could undergo significant changes in how electricity is generated and distributed

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

HB 1775 is expected to be introduced in the state legislature on January 7, 2026 and referred to the Science, Technology and Energy committee for initial consideration. If passed by the committee, the bill would then move to the full House and Senate for further debate and voting. Given the complex and controversial nature of the legislation, the timeline for potential enactment remains uncertain, but could take several months to over a year to work through the legislative process.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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