This bill amends existing laws to enhance the integration of energy storage systems with net metering for renewable energy generation. It updates the definition of "eligible customer-generator" to allow for energy storage to be added to renewable generation facilities without affecting the one megawatt size limit. The bill also transfers certain rulemaking authority from the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to the Department of Energy, which will now be responsible for adopting rules regarding the installation and interconnection of customer energy storage systems. Additionally, the PUC is authorized to set compensation terms for energy storage exports that are charged solely from renewable sources.

Key changes include the insertion of new definitions and clarifications regarding energy storage systems, as well as the requirement that such systems, if configured to export electricity to the grid, must be charged only from the associated renewable generation facility. The bill also clarifies that the PUC retains authority over net metering principles while allowing for the inclusion of energy storage. The act is set to take effect 60 days after passage, and while it does not provide funding or authorize new positions, it is expected to have indeterminable fiscal impacts on utility assessments and costs associated with electricity.

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
HB1718 text: 362-A:1-a, 374-H:1, 362-A:9