This bill summary was last updated April 15, 2025.
Public hearing – February 12
This summary includes the -4 Amendment to the bill.
This bill requires gas utilities to provide notice before blending or replacing natural gas with hydrogen, for delivery to its customers through its distribution system. Notification is required when hydrogen is blended at 2.5% or more, and for any new increment of hydrogen above 2.5%. Notification must be provided to both customers and to the Oregon Public Utilities Commission (OPUC).
Notification to customers: At least 60 days before the blending is carried out, the gas utility must notify each of its customers of the new composition of the fuel. Notification may occur in the same manner as the customer chooses to receive billing information from the utility.
Notification to OPUC: The notice to OPUC must specify the reason for the increase in the amount of hydrogen to be blended, any required siting or permitting approvals, a description of the public outreach carried out by the utility, and any other information requested by OPUC.
Natural gas utilities that are blending hydrogen must also provide notice and information on their websites, including on how customers may contact them regarding the blending program.
The bill has an additional provision requiring that the gas utilities must provide notice by June 30, 2030, if they have not previously provided notice.
The bill declares an emergency, asserting that it is necessary for immediate preservation of the public peace, health and safety.