Bill > H3854

This bill, titled "An Act relative to solar energy," makes several changes to existing laws concerning solar energy generation and net metering, which is a billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid. Key provisions include adjusting deadlines for solar projects to qualify for certain programs, introducing a new "market net metering credit" that is tied to the wholesale electricity price, and establishing a threshold of 1,600 megawatts (MW) for installed solar capacity in the commonwealth. Once this 1,600 MW threshold is met, new solar net metering facilities will generate these market net metering credits instead of traditional credits, and customers can elect to receive these credits. The bill also allows for distribution companies to propose monthly reliability contributions on electric bills to cover fixed costs of the electricity distribution system, with specific requirements for equitable allocation and ensuring it doesn't hinder solar development, and these contributions can only be approved after the 1,600 MW threshold is reached. Furthermore, it mandates the Department of Energy Resources (DOER) to adopt regulations for new solar incentive programs that aim for a stable solar market at a reasonable cost to consumers, considering various factors like installation costs, market mechanisms, and different types of solar installations, with these programs requiring approval from the Department of Public Utilities. The bill also includes provisions to ensure that existing solar projects and those in operation before the 1,600 MW threshold is met continue to receive benefits from previous programs, and it declares an emergency to ensure the immediate support of solar power generation and a stable solar market.