The bill amends the Energy Facility Siting Act by introducing new definitions and requirements for energy facility applications. It includes definitions for terms such as "advanced conductor," "dynamic line rating," and "grid-enhancing technology," which aim to modernize the language and framework surrounding energy infrastructure. The bill mandates that applications for energy facilities must consider the net-zero mandate from the 2021 Act on Climate, evaluating how proposed projects may advance or delay greenhouse gas emissions reductions and other climate-related factors.

Additionally, the bill enhances the regulatory framework for distribution and transmission companies by requiring them to conduct a cost-effectiveness and timetable analysis of multiple strategies, including the deployment of advanced conductors, grid-enhancing technologies, or energy storage as distribution or transmission resources in their capital improvement proposals. It also directs the Public Utilities Commission to conduct an independent investigation into the use of these technologies to enhance the performance of the state's transmission system.

The bill emphasizes the importance of integrating advanced conductors and grid-enhancing technologies to meet Rhode Island's greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals and improve grid performance, reliability, and security. It also includes provisions for applicants to consider existing rights-of-way for transmission line infrastructure and to justify any decisions not to utilize them. The bill takes effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
862: 39-25-3