Bill > H5967

This bill establishes a standardized taxation framework for renewable energy resources in Rhode Island, requiring cities and towns to tax renewable energy projects at a fixed rate of $5.00 per kilowatt of alternating current nameplate capacity for tangible property and $3.50 per kilowatt for real property. Additionally, the bill creates a new provision in the Renewable Ready Program that allows renewable energy projects located on previously contaminated properties (such as brownfield sites) to be considered a by-right, permitted use under municipal zoning codes. This means such projects would be automatically approved and deemed consistent with the municipality's comprehensive plan, without requiring extensive environmental impact reviews. To qualify for this streamlined approval, project developers must demonstrate that the proposed site is a previously contaminated property through documentation from state or federal agencies, environmental site assessments, or by meeting specific legal definitions of contaminated land. The bill aims to simplify the process of developing renewable energy infrastructure, particularly on underutilized or environmentally compromised sites, while providing a clear and predictable tax structure for municipalities and renewable energy developers. The legislation will take effect immediately upon passage.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

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