Bill > S716

This bill directs the North Carolina Public Utilities Commission to conduct a comprehensive study of the state's energy market, with the goal of evaluating potential reforms to improve competition and efficiency. The study will assess the costs and benefits of the current energy market, explore possible improvements to the Southeastern Energy Exchange Market, and investigate the feasibility of creating an energy imbalance market or regional transmission organization in North Carolina and potentially the broader Southeastern United States. The bill defines key terms such as an energy imbalance market (a voluntary market for real-time energy dispatch across utility territories) and a regional transmission organization (an independent, non-profit entity managing electricity transmission and generation). The study will examine multiple aspects including electricity generation capacity, customer service and rates, environmental quality, carbon emissions, economic opportunities, and potential impacts on disadvantaged communities. A qualified, independent consultant will be hired to conduct objective, evidence-based research, and the commission is required to submit a written report to the Joint Legislative Energy Policy Commission within one year of the act's enactment. The bill appropriates $350,000 in non-recurring funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year to support this study, and the legislation will become effective immediately upon becoming law.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S716