Allows preferred sites to be developed without being subject to the cap or rate reduction in the net metering statute.
Impact
This legislation is expected to significantly highlight community renewable energy initiatives by ensuring that low- and moderate-income (LMI) residents and those from disadvantaged areas have access to net metering credits. It specifically mandates that at least 50% of subscriptions to community solar projects be allocated for these households, thereby promoting energy equity and enhancing energy access for marginalized communities. The bill also requires the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources to conduct cost and benefit analyses to ensure the feasibility and effectiveness of the community solar program.
Summary
House Bill 6085 is an act that amends existing laws regarding net metering for electricity generated from eligible net-metering systems and community remote net-metering systems. The bill aims to facilitate the development of renewable energy by allowing systems on preferred development sites to bypass existing capacity caps and rate reductions typically imposed under net metering rules. Such preferred sites include previously developed areas like landfills, parking lots, and rooftops, which can be instrumental in promoting solar energy generation without further straining the environment.
Contention
While the bill has garnered support for its focus on renewable energy and environmental justice, it has faced contention, primarily from environmental groups concerned about potential land usage impacts. Critics are particularly wary of any legislation that could lead to forest land being cleared for solar development, even under the allowances for preferred sites. The exemption of existing caps and rates is also viewed with skepticism as it may lead to unforeseen economic implications on local utility companies, which might experience alterations in revenue structures due to the shift in net metering policies.
Prohibits utility companies from limiting the eligibility of a net metering site based on prior consumption and requires excess energy not consumed under the net metering system to be credited to the consumer.
Prohibits utility companies from limiting eligibility of net metering site based on prior consumption and requires excess energy not consumed to be credited to consumer. Also amends definition of excess renewable net-metering credit.
Prohibits utility companies from limiting eligibility of net metering site based on prior consumption and requires excess energy not consumed to be credited to consumer. Also amends definition of excess renewable net-metering credit.
Modifies the definition of "core forest" to refer to unfragmented forest blocks or single or multiple parcels totaling 250 acres or greater and at least 25 yards from mapped roads.
Initiation of proceeding at Public Utilities Commission regarding cost allocation of distribution system upgrades required, interconnection ombudsperson position at Public Utilities Commission established, and interconnection applications surcharge established.