Right of first refusal provided to incumbent RTO members

Senators gave final approval April 18 to a bill that changes the selection process for state electric transmission projects approved by a regional transmission organization (RTO).

The Natural Resources Committee sponsored LB388, which provides incumbent RTO members the right of first refusal for such projects. Incumbent facilities will have 90 days to notify the Power Review Board of their intention to construct, own or maintain the RTO-approved transmission line.

If no such notice is provided to the board, the right of refusal will be surrendered and any other incumbent transmission owner will be allowed to file for the right within 24 months after the first right notice is provided.

The bill passed on a 44-0 vote.