Bill > H5575

This bill modifies Rhode Island's Affordable Clean Energy Security Act to allow public utility companies to procure and enter into long-term contracts for nuclear power, expanding their existing authority to secure energy resources. The legislation enables the state's energy resources office and public utilities to participate in competitive solicitations for nuclear power transmission projects, similar to existing provisions for hydroelectric and renewable energy projects. The bill provides a framework for the Public Utilities Commission to review and approve these nuclear power contracts, requiring them to assess factors like commercial reasonability, greenhouse gas reduction targets, and overall state energy goals. The bill also adds a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the law is found invalid, the rest of the legislation remains in effect. The changes are designed to give Rhode Island more flexibility in pursuing diverse energy infrastructure options, with a particular focus on potentially adding nuclear power to the state's energy portfolio. The bill will take effect immediately upon passage, allowing utility companies to begin exploring nuclear power procurement opportunities.

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