This bill aims to clarify and update the policy principles surrounding electric utility default service, specifically addressing default service rates and the recovery of over or under collections. Key insertions include provisions that default service should minimize customer risk, not hinder the development of competitive markets, and mitigate price volatility without incurring new deferred costs. Additionally, it specifies that costs associated with serving customers on separate default service rates, including any prior under- or over-collections, should be recovered through future default service rates over a period not exceeding one year. The bill also allows the commission to implement measures to discourage misuse of default service, with any generated revenues used to offset stranded costs.

Furthermore, the bill repeals certain existing restructuring policy principles related to universal service, specifically sections RSA 374-F:3,V(d), (e), and (f). The overall intent is to streamline the default service framework while ensuring that it remains accessible and equitable for customers. The bill is set to take effect upon passage and is noted to have no fiscal impact on state, county, or local expenditures or revenues.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 374-F:3