This bill amends existing laws regarding net metering and energy storage for electric distribution utilities. It mandates that utilities provide alternative tariffs for net metering to eligible customer-generators, as outlined in PUC Order 26,029 and the commission's net metering rules. The definition of "eligible customer-generator" is updated to include those with renewable energy facilities or combined heat and power systems with a capacity of up to one megawatt, and it allows for the addition of energy storage systems without affecting the eligibility of the generation facility. Furthermore, a new definition for "industrial customer" is introduced, which pertains to customer-generators with capacities between one and five megawatts.

Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Energy to establish rules for the installation and interconnection of energy storage systems, while the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) retains the authority to approve tariffs and issue orders related to these systems. The bill also stipulates that customer-generators who apply for interconnection by December 31, 2031, will maintain eligibility for certain tariffs for up to 20 years or until January 1, 2040. The PUC is empowered to set terms for how customer-generators can use and be compensated for energy exports related to energy storage systems that are charged solely from renewable sources. The act will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 362-A:1-a, 362-A:9
As Amended by the Senate: 362-A:1-a, 362-A:9, 374-H:1
SB449 text: 362-A:1-a, 362-A:9