This bill aims to clarify 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 stipulates that costs associated with serving customers on separate default service rates, including any prior period under- or over-collections, should be recovered through future default service rates over a maximum period of one year. The bill also emphasizes that default service should be procured through competitive markets and may be managed by independent third parties.

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 regulatory framework governing electric utility default service while ensuring that customers are protected and that the system remains efficient and competitive. The bill is set to take effect upon its passage and is noted to have no fiscal impact on state, county, or local expenditures or revenue.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 374-F:3