Critical
dailytrib.com
The State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) has recommended rejecting Oncor's application for a 765-kV transmission project, citing insufficient evidence of public necessity and inadequate landowner notifications. The project, developed in partnership with the Lower Colorado River Authority, aims to connect Central Texas to the Permian Basin. SOAH's findings question Oncor's compliance with state laws.
Oncor has rejected the recommendation, arguing that the project is essential for meeting energy demand in Far West Texas and that it adhered to all notification requirements. This dispute adds to ongoing challenges, including landowner opposition and regulatory scrutiny.
Why it matters: Oncor's August 25 response escalates a regulatory conflict that began with SOAH's August 22 recommendation. The outcome could set precedents for how utilities navigate regulatory and community challenges in Texas' expanding energy market.