Bill > H7610

This bill requires the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), working with the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC), to conduct a comprehensive study by April 30, 2027, and submit it to the governor and legislative leaders. The study's main goal is to find ways to lower energy costs for consumers in Rhode Island, including electric and gas rates, by reviewing all existing energy programs that add to costs and identifying which ones could be terminated to reduce rates. It also mandates comparing Rhode Island's energy rates and programs with those in other states to learn from their successes or failures in keeping energy costs lower. The PUC and DPUC will develop a research plan, hire consultants with a $100,000 appropriation, and aim to eliminate policies and practices that are not transparent about their impact on energy bills. Furthermore, the bill proposes that any future legislation affecting energy costs should include an "energy note" similar to financial notes, clearly showing its potential positive or negative impact on consumer energy bills.

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