The "Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act" is a proposed bill that establishes a new chapter in Title 39 of the General Laws in Rhode Island, focusing on the development of thermal energy networks to support greenhouse gas reduction goals and promote a just energy transition. The bill mandates public utilities to conduct feasibility studies for these networks, particularly in environmental justice focus areas, and allows for the recovery of associated costs, encouraging utilities to seek non-ratepayer funding.

It also sets up a framework for pilot projects based on the feasibility studies, requiring proposals to be submitted to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) for approval, ensuring that projects provide net benefits to ratepayers while adhering to labor standards. The legislation creates a twelve-member task force to advise the PUC and public utilities on the deployment of thermal energy networks. This task force will provide periodic written updates, identify funding mechanisms, recommend coordination among utilities, municipalities, and private developers, and focus on workforce transitions and planning for system expansion.

The PUC is tasked with regulating these networks and must consider the task force's findings in its rule-making. The act includes a severability clause and stipulates that the task force will expire six months after submitting its report unless extended by the General Assembly. The act will take effect upon passage.