Requires applications for energy facilities to take into consideration the 2021 Act on Climate and how the facility may advance or delay the greenhouse gas emissions reductions.
Impact
The passage of S0862 would significantly influence how energy facilities are evaluated and sited in Rhode Island. By compelling facilities to assess their adherence to the state's net-zero emissions targets, the bill would likely lead to more stringent scrutiny of energy projects. The regulatory landscape for these facilities would shift towards prioritizing ecological and sustainability factors, potentially shaping future energy infrastructure investment decisions and operational approaches in the state.
Summary
Bill S0862 aims to amend the Energy Facility Siting Act in Rhode Island by mandating that applications for energy facilities consider the net-zero emissions mandate established in the 2021 Act on Climate. This requirement is intended to ensure that energy projects are assessed for their potential impacts on greenhouse gas emissions, either advancing or delaying stated reduction goals. The bill emphasizes the usage of advanced technologies and infrastructure improvements to support these objectives, providing a framework for evaluating energy facility projects in alignment with climate goals.
Contention
While the bill is designed to promote cleaner energy and more responsible development practices, it may face opposition from stakeholders concerned about the implications of these requirements. Critics may argue that the added layers of regulations could complicate approval processes, increase costs, and potentially stifle new energy projects. Additionally, some may question the feasibility of certain technological implementations and whether they align with all stakeholders' interests, particularly within the existing infrastructure framework.
Increases the membership of the energy facility siting board from 3 to 5 members and would revise the process of energy facility siting to mandate inclusion/participation of the host community of the facility as well as of the public and cities and towns.
Increases the membership of the energy facility siting board from 3 to 5 members and would revise the process of energy facility siting to mandate inclusion/participation of the host community of the facility as well as of the public and cities and towns.
Makes several amendments relative to the affordable clean energy security act establishing the act's priority over chapter 6.2 of title 42 (the "2021 act on climate").
Makes several amendments relative to the affordable clean energy security act establishing the act's priority over chapter 6.2 of title 42 (the "2021 act on climate").
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.
Requires applications for energy facilities to take into consideration the 2021 Act on Climate and how the facility may advance or delay the greenhouse gas emissions reductions.