This bill amends existing laws to facilitate the integration of energy storage systems with net metering for renewable energy generation. It grants the Department of Energy the authority to adopt rules regarding the installation and interconnection of customer energy storage systems, while the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is tasked with establishing compensation terms for energy storage exports charged solely from renewable sources. The definition of "eligible customer-generator" is updated to allow the inclusion of energy storage systems without affecting their eligibility for net metering, provided that these systems are charged exclusively from the associated renewable generation facility when exporting electricity to the grid, unless otherwise authorized by the PUC.

The legislation maintains the principles of net energy metering while incorporating energy storage into the framework, emphasizing consumer rights to install and use these systems under safety and size regulations set by the Department of Energy. The bill also includes a contingency based on the passage of another bill (HB 1742) and outlines effective dates for various provisions, with some set to take effect on January 1, 2027. The fiscal impact on electricity costs and net metering compensation remains uncertain, with potential increases in electric rates leading to additional costs for the State. Furthermore, the PUC is expected to conduct rulemaking to establish compensation terms, which may necessitate hiring additional staff to manage the analysis and administration of alternative net metering tariffs.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 362-A:1-a, 374-H:1, 362-A:9
As Amended by the House: 362-A:1-a, 374-H:1, 362-A:9, 374-H:2
As Amended by the Senate: 362-A:1-a, 374-H:1, 362-A:9, 374-H:2
As Amended by the Senate (2nd): 362-A:1-a, 374-H:1, 362-A:9, 374-H:2
Version adopted by both bodies: 362-A:1-a, 374-H:1, 362-A:9, 374-H:2
HB1718 text: 362-A:1-a, 374-H:1, 362-A:9