The bill H.352, introduced by Representative Logan of Burlington, aims to establish the Renewable Energy for Communities Program, which will be administered by the Public Utility Commission. This program is designed to promote distributed renewable generation that benefits communities, particularly those historically marginalized or with limited access to renewable energy resources. The bill outlines eligibility requirements for participation, objectives for community engagement, and mandates retail electricity providers to issue solicitations for distributed renewable generation to meet specific capacity requirements. The Commission is tasked with developing the program by January 1, 2027, and will consult with various stakeholders to ensure diverse perspectives are included in the program's development.

Additionally, the bill amends existing definitions related to net metering systems, specifically changing the qualification timeline for group net metering systems from January 1, 2026, to January 1, 2027. It also clarifies that systems filing applications after December 31, 2024, must generate energy for use on the same or adjacent parcel where the plant is located, with specific provisions for multifamily buildings serving low-income tenants. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 30-8002