The proposed "Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act" introduces a new chapter in Title 39 of the General Laws of Rhode Island, focusing on the study and implementation of thermal energy networks. The act aims to facilitate the study of this technology to determine if it can contribute to greenhouse gas reduction and just-transition requirements while potentially offering reduced operating costs and decreased costs of future expansion.

Public utilities are required to conduct feasibility studies for thermal energy networks, identifying no fewer than two and no more than twelve potential locations that represent diverse geographies and building types, with at least one location benefiting an environmental justice focus area. The act outlines criteria for evaluating these locations, including greenhouse gas emissions reductions, cost-effectiveness, and the degree to which the project benefits communities experiencing disproportionate environmental or public health burdens. All costs incurred by utilities in compliance with the act are fully recoverable, provided that utilities pursue available non-ratepayer funding.

To support the initiative, the bill establishes a twelve-member thermal energy network task force, which will serve as an advisory committee to evaluate the results of the feasibility studies and any pilot projects. The task force will include representatives from the Office of Energy Resources, the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, labor organizations, and various stakeholders with expertise in workforce, environmental justice, and utility infrastructure. The task force is tasked with providing periodic updates and submitting a written report to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), the Department of Environmental Management (DEM), the Office of Energy Resources (OER), and the General Assembly within eighteen months of receiving the complete results from the feasibility studies. This report will include findings and actionable recommendations for state planning and regulatory processes.

The PUC is responsible for adopting rules and regulations to implement the provisions of the act, including creating fair market access rules for utility-owned thermal energy networks and establishing criteria for cost-effectiveness and rate structures. The act includes a severability clause and is set to take effect upon passage.