Relating to the authority of the Railroad Commission of Texas and the Public Utility Commission of Texas to address a failure by an operator to maintain an electrical power line serving a well site or certain surface facilities in accordance with the National Electrical Code.

Electrical safety rules for Texas oilfields

Beginning September 1, 2025, operators must follow electrical safety rules for power lines serving oil and gas wells and surface facilities. Construction, operation, and maintenance must meet the National Electrical Code adopted by the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation. Operators must prevent and fix visible pole problems, including damage, wear, leaning, and cracks. Landowners or lessees who find lines, poles, or related equipment that fail these standards must notify the Railroad Commission in writing. When the commission discovers a visible violation that risks fire or injury, deadlines apply. Discovery can follow an inspection or a landowner's or lessee's report. Within 3 days, the commission must notify the Public Utility Commission and operator, describing the problem and whether the well is abandoned. It must tell the landowner about the problem and planned actions within 10 days. That deadline becomes 30 days if the commission lacks the landowner's contact information when it discovers the problem. Within 10 days after discovery, the commissions must resolve the problem through one of three routes. They can request a state fire marshal or local authority inspection requiring the operator to address identified dangers. They can instead request a power shutoff where utility equipment connects to customer equipment, or take other necessary and appropriate action. The electric provider must restore service when the Railroad Commission reports that the problem is resolved. Commission members, employees, and agents may enter public or private property as needed for inspections. The amended inspection rules apply only to inspections on or after September 1, 2025.