Bill > SB00004

This bill aims to improve energy affordability, access, and accountability in Connecticut through various legislative provisions. The bill encompasses a comprehensive set of measures targeting electric distribution, renewable energy, utility regulation, and consumer protection. Here's a summary of its key provisions: This bill introduces several significant changes to Connecticut's energy landscape. It authorizes the State Bond Commission to issue up to $125 million in bonds for each of fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to reduce hardship protection costs and fund electric vehicle charging programs. The bill modifies renewable energy tariff programs, establishing new guidelines for solar and other renewable energy installations, including provisions for low-income and moderate-income customers. It creates a thermal energy network grant and loan program to support sustainable energy infrastructure and introduces an electric active demand and gas demand response pilot program to improve grid reliability. The legislation includes several consumer protection measures, such as establishing requirements for electric distribution companies to develop customer education programs for time-varying rates and implementing new rules for service termination and medical protection. It also introduces a solar photovoltaic system tax for systems over one megawatt and creates provisions for tax exemptions and municipal tax abatements for renewable energy installations. The bill mandates various studies and reports, including an examination of electric system efficiency, renewable energy procurement, and consumer protection for solar photovoltaic system purchases. It also modifies the structure and responsibilities of the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority and the Office of Consumer Counsel, enhancing their oversight and consumer advocacy roles. Additionally, the bill addresses advanced nuclear reactor development by establishing a site readiness funding program and sets new standards for nuclear power facility construction. It includes provisions for grid-enhancing technologies and efforts to improve electric system load factors and overall system efficiency. The comprehensive nature of this bill reflects a multi-faceted approach to addressing energy challenges, focusing on affordability, sustainability, consumer protection, and technological innovation in Connecticut's energy sector.

Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

Energy and Technology Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=SB00004&which_year=2025