Connecticut House Bill HB05349

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/18
• Refer: 3/1/18

Caption

An Act Requiring The Study Of The Permitting Of Farm-based Anaerobic Digesters.

Impact

The implementation of this bill is expected to have a significant impact on state laws governing energy generation and agricultural practices. By initiating a study, the state can evaluate existing barriers to permitting and consider reforms that could facilitate the adoption of anaerobic digesters. If the study leads to recommendations that simplify the permitting process, it would likely encourage more farmers to invest in these technologies, ultimately enhancing renewable energy production in the state and contributing to sustainability goals.

Summary

HB05349 is a legislative act aimed at requiring the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to conduct a study focused on the permitting process for farm-based anaerobic digesters. The act emphasizes the need for a more streamlined approach to the permitting, which is critical for the adoption and expansion of such technologies in the agricultural sector. The bill signifies a legislative move towards improving energy generation practices by enhancing the operational efficiency of anaerobic digesters, which can convert farm waste into renewable energy, thereby supporting environmental goals.

Contention

While the bill aims to promote renewable energy through anaerobic digestion, potential points of contention may arise during the study process regarding the environmental assessments required for such systems. Stakeholders, including environmental advocates and industry representatives, may have differing views on the implications of streamlining permits, particularly concerning the regulations necessary to ensure environmental protection and community health. Ensuring that the study addresses these concerns will be crucial to avoid conflicts and achieve broad-based support for eventual legislative outcomes stemming from the study's findings.