FRANKFORT, Ky. (March 12, 2026) — The Kentucky Senate has passed legislation that’s meant to strengthen Kentucky’s long-term energy planning efforts and ensure state leaders have the information necessary to maintain reliable and affordable electricity for the commonwealth.
Sen. Robby Mills of Henderson sponsored Senate Bill 100, which updates the structure and operations of the Energy Planning and Inventory Commission (EPIC), intending to revitalize the commission’s original mission of evaluating Kentucky’s energy resources and developing a long-term strategy for meeting future demand.
“Reliable energy is essential to Kentucky’s economy and quality of life,” Mills said. “Senate Bill 100 helps ensure the Legislature has the data, expertise and long-term planning tools needed to make sound energy policy decisions that protect ratepayers and support economic growth.”
Mills said the commission’s statewide planning role has struggled to move forward in recent years due to delays in appointments, bureaucratic hurdles and limited engagement from industry stakeholders. Senate Bill 100 is designed to strengthen the commission’s ability to carry out its mission and provide the Legislature with independent analysis of Kentucky’s energy needs.
Under the bill, EPIC would operate with a stronger executive leadership structure, making the organization more executive-director-driven, with the commission board and executive committee serving in advisory roles. The legislation also reinforces the commission’s independence so it can produce objective analysis and recommendations for lawmakers while remaining administratively attached to the University of Kentucky for support services.
Senate Bill 100 also makes several operational updates, including adjustments to the structure of the commission’s executive committee, the maintenance of Senate confirmation authority for key appointments, and greater flexibility for the commission to recruit specialized energy professionals to conduct technical studies.
The bill also clarifies that certain work products of the commission may be exempt from public disclosure due to the sensitive nature of energy planning information.
Mills said the legislation is intended to help Kentucky develop a long-term energy strategy that ensures reliability while supporting economic development.
“The goal is to ensure Kentucky has a strong, independent energy planning process that lawmakers can rely on as we prepare for future growth and rising electricity demand,” Mills said. “This bill helps position Kentucky to remain a leader in energy production while protecting the interests of our citizens and ratepayers.”
Senate Bill 100 now heads to the Kentucky House of Representatives for consideration.
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