Bill > S0329

This bill amends South Carolina law to authorize and encourage electrical utilities to establish targeted investment programs focused on improving the reliability, resiliency, and modernization of electrical distribution and transmission systems. The bill allows utilities to submit investment plans to the state commission for review, with the commission required to make a decision within 135 days. Utilities can propose projects aimed at reducing outage risks, enhancing grid performance during severe weather or natural disasters, and integrating new technologies. Importantly, the bill permits utilities to defer program-related costs as a regulatory asset and potentially recover these expenses through rates if the commission deems them reasonable and prudent. The costs that can be recovered include capital expenses, financing costs, operational and maintenance expenses, and other directly related program implementation costs. The legislation provides a framework for electrical utilities to proactively invest in grid infrastructure improvements with a clear regulatory pathway for cost recovery, ultimately aiming to enhance the reliability and resilience of South Carolina's electrical grid. The bill will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

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https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0329&session=126&summary=B