Limits the development of utility scale solar energy projects.
Impact
By limiting utility scale solar projects to developed urban areas, H5583 seeks to prevent the use of forested land and other rural properties for such developments. This approach could encourage increased reliance on solar energy within cities but may also deter potential economic development associated with solar farming in less populated areas. The law aims to balance the need for renewable energy with environmental and local zoning concerns, making the energy transition more compatible with urban living environments.
Summary
House Bill 5583 aims to regulate the development of utility scale solar energy projects by restricting where such projects can be established. Specifically, the bill stipulates that these projects can only be developed in urban areas providing energy to residential or commercial properties, and on already developed sites such as rooftops and parking lots. The legislation intends to prioritize the integration of renewable energy solutions within existing urban infrastructure rather than utilizing undeveloped land, thereby promoting sustainable energy usage in populated areas.
Contention
Debates surrounding HB 5583 could arise over the implications of restricting solar development to urban areas. Advocates of the bill may argue that it is a necessary step toward reducing land conversion and preserving natural landscapes, thus addressing environmental impacts. Conversely, critics might contend that restricting solar projects to urban areas limits the scope of renewable energy production, potentially imposing greater energy costs on residents by not utilizing the available rural land for larger solar installations.
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.
Amends several sections of chapter 24 of title 45, entitled "zoning ordinances," also known as the "Rhode Island zoning enabling act of 1991," with the intent of preserving neighborhood character and promoting smart growth.
Exempts battery energy storage system equipment, solar thermal collectors for commercial applications and solar storage tanks that are part of a commercial solar hot water system from the state sales tax.
Amends tax law on renewable energy products to exempt certain additional products from sales tax including battery energy storage system equipment, if supplied by a manufacturer of solar photovoltaic equipment.