The bill H.155 aims to reauthorize the Standard Offer Program in Vermont, which facilitates the awarding of contracts for the construction of new renewable energy generation projects. Key amendments include changes to eligibility criteria for standard offers, specifically that qualifying plants must not be net metering systems under section 8010 and must be new standard offer plants with a capacity of 2.2 MW or less, commissioned after September 30, 2009. The cumulative capacity limit for the program is increased from 127.5 MW to 227.5 MW, with a structured annual increase in capacity that escalates to 20 MW starting April 1, 2026.

Additionally, the bill introduces a new section focused on solar energy allocations, mandating that beginning April 1, 2026, new standard offer awards will be allocated specifically to solar, wind, and hydroelectric power plants, with a designated two MW for community solar projects. The Commission is tasked with establishing a price cap for these projects based on the highest-cost solar project from the previous year. If the community solar allocation is not fully subscribed, the remaining capacity will be available for other standard offer plants. The act is set to take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 30-8005a