An Act Concerning Certain Programs And To Incentivize And Implement Electric Energy Storage Resources.
Impact
If enacted, the bill will have a significant impact on state laws regarding energy management and environmental protection. It mandates the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority to create programs that can benefit residential, commercial, and industrial electric customers. These programs will be designed to incentivize the use of electric energy storage technologies that provide not only cost savings to ratepayers but also multiple benefits to the electric grid. Such benefits include enhancing grid resilience and allowing for a smoother transition to a state-based electric energy storage industry, further promoting economic development within the sector.
Summary
House Bill 05351 aims to implement incentive programs for the development and deployment of electric energy storage resources connected to the state's electric distribution system. The bill establishes a state policy to encourage the deployment of 1,000 megawatts of energy storage by December 31, 2030. This initiative is designed to enhance electric distribution system reliability and reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which aligns with the state's environmental goals. The bill lays the groundwork for annual reporting from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection and the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority regarding the progress toward this energy storage target.
Contention
Notably, discussions surrounding HB 05351 may involve concerns over the financial implications of implementing these energy storage incentives. Proponents argue that the return on investment will ultimately lead to lower electric rates and improved energy reliability, while critics may question the state's ability to fund such expansive programs without passing costs onto consumers. Additionally, ensuring that the proposed incentives adequately reflect the needs and conditions of different customer classes may contribute to ongoing debates among stakeholders in the energy sector.