Bill > S2257

This bill enhances the regulatory framework for municipal lighting authorities in Massachusetts by introducing several key provisions. It establishes new requirements for municipal light plants formed after December 31, 2022, including mandating that they submit plans to the department allowing retail customers competitive choice of generation supply and ensuring customers can continue existing generation supply arrangements. The bill requires these new municipal light plants to adhere to service quality standards set by the department, which will cover areas like customer satisfaction, service outages, facility upgrades, repairs, maintenance, telephone service, billing, and public safety. When municipalities seek to establish a new municipal lighting plant, they must now provide detailed documentation to the department, including property acquisition plans, financial projections, and governance options. The bill also clarifies the process for municipalities purchasing distribution equipment from existing utility companies, including how to handle unfunded liabilities, long-term renewable energy contracts, and the transfer of rights and obligations. Additionally, the legislation provides a framework for determining the value of utility property to be purchased and ensures that the transfer process is transparent, with required reporting to the state legislature's telecommunications, utilities, and energy committee.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2257