The bill seeks to repeal section 386.890 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri and introduces the "Net Metering and Easy Connection Act," which defines essential terms related to net metering, such as "customer-generator." This term refers to individuals or organizations that operate renewable energy generation units with a capacity of up to 100 kilowatts at their premises. The legislation outlines the obligations of retail electric suppliers, mandating them to offer net metering on a first-come, first-served basis until a specified capacity limit is reached, and requires annual disclosures about the net metering program to customers. It also establishes guidelines for the interconnection of customer-generators' systems with distribution systems, ensuring safety and performance standards are met.
Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for the installation and operation of qualified electric energy generation units, emphasizing the need for licensed professional electricians and engineers. If these professionals are unlicensed, retail electric suppliers may require a bond for safe installation. Customer-generators must reapply for interconnection if they do not complete the process within a year or if ownership changes. The bill also mandates annual net metering reports from electrical corporations detailing customer-generator facilities and their capacities. It emphasizes transparency in the sales process for generation units, holding manufacturers or sellers liable for misrepresentations regarding safety standards, and grants the attorney general enforcement authority under the Missouri merchandising practices act.
Statutes affected: Introduced (6306H.01):
386.890