Bill > B26-0602

This bill, the Guiding Renewable Interconnection and Distribution (GRID) Amendment Act of 2026, aims to streamline the process for District residents and solar developers to connect their solar systems to the electric grid, particularly for smaller generation facilities under 20 megawatts that don't fall under PJM interconnection rules. It introduces clearer standards for cost transparency, sets specific timelines for permitting, and establishes accountability for grid managers. Key provisions include defining terms like "Interconnection Customer" (someone applying to connect a solar system), "Grid" (the electric distribution system), and "Small Generator Facility" (equipment used to generate or store electricity that works with the grid). The bill mandates that electric companies provide estimated interconnection costs early in the process, adhere to strict deadlines for reviews and approvals, and offer detailed explanations for any denials. It also establishes an interconnection ombuds office to help resolve disputes and requires electric companies to publish guides and median costs for interconnection on their websites. Furthermore, the bill introduces a cost-sharing mechanism for grid capacity upgrades, with different approaches for primary voltage customers (those receiving power at higher voltages like 4kV or 13kV) and secondary voltage customers (those receiving power at lower voltages like 120V or 240V), and clarifies rules for portable solar generation devices, ensuring they are not subject to mandatory interconnection or net metering unless voluntarily chosen by the owner. Finally, it amends the Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard Act to exclude out-of-District geothermal energy from generating renewable energy credits and sets new criteria for certain air-source renewable energy systems.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0602