Rhode Island Senate Bill S0843

Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/19/25
• Refer: 3/19/25
• Report Pass: 6/2/25
• Engrossed: 6/4/25

Caption

Allows a property owner with eligible net-metering systems with a master meter to allocate excess net metering credits to any meter on the property.

Impact

The act revises the definition of 'eligible net-metering system' by removing previous restrictions based on a three-year average annual consumption of energy. Such a change would essentially broaden the scope of properties that can benefit from net metering and facilitate a more equitable distribution of renewable energy credits. This provision is expected to promote inclusivity in renewable energy usage, thereby supporting state goals for sustainable energy adoption and reducing overall greenhouse gas emissions.

Summary

Bill S0843, titled the Net-Metering Act, seeks to amend existing legislation governing public utilities and carriers, specifically in the realm of net metering. It introduces provisions that allow property owners with eligible net-metering systems that have a master meter to allocate excess metering credits to any meter associated with their property. This legislative change is poised to enhance energy accessibility and affordability for low- and moderate-income households by allowing greater flexibility in how energy credits can be distributed across multiple accounts, thereby enabling better management of their energy consumption and costs.

Contention

While proponents of S0843 highlight its potential to empower low-income communities and enhance renewable energy utilization, critics may raise concerns regarding the specifics of implementation. One notable issue includes how excess credits will be calculated and allocated fairly among different accounts, as well as the financial implications for electric distribution companies. These entities might argue that the new rules could lead to revenue shortfalls that would ultimately be absorbed by all customers, potentially leading to increased costs across the board.