The bill amends Section 39-26.4-3 of the General Laws to enhance net metering regulations while introducing new provisions. Key insertions include a maximum allowable capacity for eligible net-metering systems set at ten megawatts (10 MW) and specific conditions for systems located in core forests, limiting the removal of core forest to no more than one hundred thousand square feet (100,000 sq. ft) for systems on preferred sites. Additionally, a cap of two hundred seventy-five megawatts (275 MWac) is established for ground-mounted eligible net-metering systems, with a construction deadline of July 1, 2030. The bill also allows electric distribution companies to estimate production and consumption for net-metered accounts over a twelve-month period, enabling a more stable billing process and providing for payments for excess renewable net-metering credits.

Furthermore, the bill allows for the development of renewable energy systems on preferred sites, such as landfills and rooftops, without being subject to the existing 275 MWac capacity restriction. It mandates that any revenue shortfall from these exemptions be recovered through customer rates. The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources is tasked with redesigning the community solar remote net metering program to include a commercial or industrial anchor tenant, with specific capacity allocations for low- and moderate-income residents. The bill emphasizes the importance of siting eligible net-metering systems outside of core forests, with structured guidelines for community solar project implementation and approval.

Statutes affected:
6085: 39-26.4-3