The bill amends AS 42.05.431 to allow electric cooperative utilities in Alaska to include certain costs related to renewable energy and battery energy storage in their rates. Specifically, it permits these utilities to recover costs associated with new or purchased renewable energy facilities or battery energy storage systems, as long as the nameplate capacity is less than 15,000 kilowatts and the costs are approved by the utility's board of directors. The definition of "renewable energy facility" is also clarified to encompass various sources such as geothermal, wind, solar, hydroelectric, hydrokinetic, tidal, and biomass energy.

This legislative change aims to promote the adoption of renewable energy technologies by providing a framework for electric cooperatives to recover their investments in these sustainable energy sources. By allowing the inclusion of these costs in utility rates, the bill seeks to encourage the development of smaller-scale renewable energy projects and enhance the overall reliability of the electric grid in Alaska.

Statutes affected:
SB0032A, AM SB 32, introduced 01/10/2025: 42.05.431