Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0380

Introduced
2/26/25  

Caption

Requires the public utilities commission (PUC) to produce a report by January 1, 2026 and each January 1 thereafter, on the ability for the current electric grid to handle the electrification load need to power cars, buildings, and heating of homes.

Impact

The implementation of S0380 is significant for state law as it establishes a formal requirement for ongoing assessment of the electric grid—a critical infrastructure component. This legislative measure addresses the potential challenges posed by the transition to electrification, particularly as Rhode Island moves towards more robust clean energy policies. By mandating regular reporting, the PUC is tasked with identifying infrastructural limitations and opportunities, which could lead to informed decision-making and necessary upgrades in state utilities.

Summary

Senate Bill S0380 mandates that the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC) develop and submit a comprehensive report by January 1, 2026, and annually thereafter. This report is focused on evaluating the existing electric grid's capacity to support the growing demands of electrification, which encompasses powering electric vehicles, buildings, and home heating systems. The bill aims to ensure that the state's electric grid is adequately equipped to handle these increasingly important technological and infrastructural shifts.

Contention

While the bill is largely aimed at facilitating Rhode Island's transition to a more electrified future, discussions may arise regarding the adequacy of funding and resources allocated to the PUC for conducting these reports. Furthermore, stakeholders may express varying opinions about the pace and scope of electrification, particularly in relation to its environmental and economic implications. The requirement for annual evaluation could also introduce debates about how quickly the state should adapt to emerging technologies and the potential implications for consumers and utility providers alike.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI S2506

Requires the public utilities commission (PUC) to produce a report by January 1, 2025 and each January 1 thereafter, on the ability for the current electric grid to handle the electrification load need to power cars, buildings, and heating of homes.

RI H7810

Requires the public utilities commission (PUC) to produce a report by January 1, 2025 and each January 1 thereafter, on the ability for the current electric grid to handle the electrification load need to power cars, buildings, and heating of homes.

RI S2614

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2025.

RI H7623

Requires a report to be produced that focuses on prescription drug prior authorizations by January 1, 2025.

RI H7285

Establishes thermal energy networks network infrastructure by any public utility company that provides electric/natural gas distribution to maximize cost-effective investments deemed in the public interest by the public utilities commission (PUC).

RI S2956

Amends several provisions relative the powers and duties of the PUC and requires the submission by utilities of integrated distribution system plans identifying solutions to reduce greenhouse gases.

RI S2065

Increases the net taxable estate exemption to three million six hundred thousand dollars ($3,600,000) on January 1, 2025. Also increases the exemption by one million dollars ($1,000,000) on January 1 per year thereafter.

RI S2995

Requires, by January 1, 2026, the creation of an online, publicly available, comprehensive statewide geographic information system of land related resources to include information from all towns and cities.

RI H5346

Public Utilities Commission

RI S2509

Requires the PUC to make public notification of any changes in eligibility or production of energy, and would direct the commission to promulgate rules and regulations to allow and facilitate the prompt public disclosure of this information.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.