The bill amends the "Net Metering" chapter of the General Laws to update definitions and provisions related to net metering systems, including the introduction of a "Community remote net-metering system." This system generates electricity using an eligible net-metering resource and allocates net-metering credits to accounts, with specific requirements for credit allocation to low- or moderate-income housing or other eligible credit-recipient customer accounts. The bill also expands the scope of entities that can own eligible net-metering systems to include private entities and specifies that all accounts designated by these entities shall be treated as eligible within an eligible net-metering system site. It aims to ensure that energy generated by eligible net-metering systems is consumed by accounts that are geographically close to the system, with certain exceptions.

Additionally, the bill defines "Eligible credit recipient" to include residential accounts in good standing, low- or moderate-income housing eligible credit recipients, and educational institutions, while excluding certain biomass fuels from the definition of "Eligible net-metering resource." It also clarifies the definition of "private entity" and how it fits into the net metering framework, specifying the conditions under which these entities are charged by the distribution company. The bill outlines the credit system for net metering, detailing how credits are calculated and the rate classes applicable to the net-metering customer. The bill includes insertions and deletions to renumber and integrate new legal language, and it is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
5491: 39-26.4-2