Bill > H922

This bill introduces comprehensive reforms to North Carolina's public utility regulations, focusing on protecting consumers from unjust fees and limiting utilities' spending on political and promotional activities. The legislation establishes strict guidelines for what costs public utilities can recover from ratepayers, prohibiting expenses related to advertising, lobbying, political contributions, entertainment, travel, and other activities not directly tied to providing utility services. Public utilities will be required to submit detailed annual reports to the North Carolina Utilities Commission, disclosing all expenses associated with prohibited activities, including information about employees and organizational units involved in such activities. The bill mandates that utilities clearly disclose whether messaging or advertising costs are paid by shareholders or ratepayers and creates an "Energy Equity Fund" where penalties collected from utilities will be deposited, with funds potentially used for disaster relief and helping low-income households transition to zero-emission appliances. The Commission is empowered to impose significant financial penalties for violations, ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 per violation, with each inappropriate expense considered a separate violation. Additionally, the bill allows the Commission to approve alternative regulatory mechanisms and special rates, provided they protect public interests, ensure equitable treatment across customer classes, and do not compromise electric service reliability.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H922