The Public Utility Commission of Texas recently approved Oncor’s proposed Dinosaur Switch to Longshore 765 kV Transmission Line. The proposed lines are part of the Permian Basin Reliability Plan, spanning 242.6 miles across West and Central Texas¹. However, the primary destination for this electricity is not Texas residents.

These powerlines do not distribute power directly to homes or local businesses along the path. Instead, they will be used to fuel oil and gas operations, and data centers. In order to do so, the Dinosaur Switch to Longshore 765 kV Transmission Line could cross your property and restrict your rights. It could also disrupt agricultural operations, limit future development opportunities, and decrease your property value.

 

Photo by American Electric Power

With construction set to begin by summer 2027, thousands of acres of private property will be in Oncor’s path. If you are a landowner who may be affected by the Dinosaur Switch to Longshore 765 kV Transmission Line, call us today to speak to an experienced eminent domain attorney.

Marrs, Ellis & Hodge LLP represents Texas landowners in eminent domain and condemnation matters. We help you evaluate transmission easements, identify remainder damages, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Call (512) 215-4078 today for a free consultation.

1. Public Utility Commission of Texas. “Permian Basin Reliability Plan.” Accessed September 2, 2026. https://www.puc.texas.gov/industry/electric/business/permian-basin/. ↩︎

Last week, Justin Hodge, Kyle Baum, and Hannah Sliva had the privilege of speaking at the April No East Loop BBQ Social in Bryan, TX. The event brought together a full room of landowners and community members to discuss the proposed East Loop project—a 20-mile roadway that could significantly impact properties across Brazos County.

Engaging directly with landowners was the highlight of the evening! We heard firsthand the concerns, questions, and perspectives of those who stand to be affected by this development. Our discussion covered the legal processes involved, the rights landowners have in the face of potential condemnation, and the steps they can take to stay informed and prepared.

Thank you to Brazos Roofs & Ranches for hosting an educational gathering. The strong turnout and active participation underscored the community’s commitment to understanding and asserting their rights.

If your property is impacted by the East Loop project or similar developments, it’s essential to know your rights and options. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us for guidance and support.

EminentDomain #TexasLandowners #NELProject #PropertyRights #CommunityEngagement #BrazosValley #MarrsEllisHodge

Kyle Baum, Marrs Ellis & Hodge LLP partner, was interviewed on CBS7 news regarding the upcoming DeLa Express Pipeline project crossing the State of Texas.  You can watch the full interview here:

https://www.firstalert7.com/2024/09/26/dela-express-pipeline-become-longest-texas-raising-eminent-domain-concerns

Mr. Baum warned “Any documents that landowners are asked to sign were likely drafted by the pipeline company’s lawyers, so they may not be in the owner’s best interest.  That’s where an attorney can help evaluate.”  He noted that “Property owners will have one opportunity to receive compensation for both the land taken and any changes that affect their property.”  Even though landowners generally cannot stop a pipeline project, they are constitutionally entitled to just compensation for the part of their property taken and any reduction in value to their remaining property.

About the DeLa Express Pipeline

The DeLa Express Pipeline project, an approximately 700 mile long natural gas pipeline by Moss Lake Partners, LP, will run from west Texas into Louisiana, making it the longest natural gas pipeline in the state of Texas once built.  Thousands of acres of property will be impacted in  30 counties, stretching from Reeves County (west of Odessa) to Orange County (east of Beaumont).  If you are a landowner being contacted by Moss Lake Partners, LP, DeLa Express, LLC, or a right-of-way company about the DeLa Express Pipeline project, you need to speak with an attorney about your constitutional rights.  It is important not to approve or sign any documentation presented to you without consulting an attorney first.  This way, your rights can be fully protected.  

On April 15, 2024, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission began the review process for the DeLa Express Pipeline project, which will enable the taking of private property by the power of eminent domain.  This massive project will impact property owners in the following counties:

• Reeves
• Loving
• Winkler
• Ector
• Midland
• Upton
• Glasscock
• Sterling
• Coke
• Runnels
• Coleman
• Brown
• Mills
• Hamilton
• Coryell
• McLennan
• Bell
• Falls
• Milam
• Robertson
• Brazos 
• Grimes
• Walker
• Montgomery
• San Jacinto
• Liberty
• Hardin
• Jefferson
• Orange 
• Calcasieu (LA) 

It is in your best interest to speak with an attorney as soon as you are contacted about the DeLa Express Pipeline project, especially if you are offered less than fair market value for the taking of your property.  At Marrs Ellis & Hodge LLP, we represent property owners throughout the condemnation process.  Please contact us for a free consultation.

Marrs Ellis & Hodge LLP partner, Justin Hodge, was interviewed on Silberman Law Firm’s Weekly Docket Podcast. You can listen to it here:

https://weeklydocket.buzzsprout.com/2305495/14647881-fincen-s-new-rules-for-llc-s-trump-s-ballot-case-eminent-domain-franchise-tax-and-wendy-s-price-surge