Energy (Utility Regulation)

SB 2631 requires Rhode Island's Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) to complete a comprehensive study by April 30, 2027, aimed at lowering energy costs for consumers. The study must review all Rhode Island energy programs to identify those increasing costs, compare rates with other states, and recommend policy changes. It includes $100,000 for hiring consultants to research these areas and proposes that future energy-related legislation include clear cost impact statements. The bill directly affects the PUC/DUPC by mandating this study, with the goal of making energy rates more transparent and affordable for Rhode Island residents. It does not change current energy rates but sets a process for evaluating potential cost-saving measures.

HB 7880 creates a tiered subsidy program to make home energy costs affordable for low-income households earning 150% of the federal poverty level or less. It requires large electric and gas utilities (with over 100,000 customers) to file income-based discount plans by January 2027, capping energy costs at 3% of income for non-electric heat users or 6% for electric heat users. Utilities must cover the cost of these discounts - plus administrative expenses - through adjusted rates paid by all customers, not just low-income households. The Public Utilities Commission must approve these plans by January 2028, and enrolled customers will receive fixed monthly discounts while being offered energy efficiency programs.

HB 7610 requires Rhode Island's Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) to produce a comprehensive study by April 30, 2027, aimed at lowering energy rates for consumers. The study must compare Rhode Island's electric and gas rates with other states, review all state energy programs that increase costs, and identify policies or practices that could be changed to reduce bills. The PUC will use $100,000 in funding to hire consultants and develop a research plan, including recommendations for transparent "energy notes" on future legislation affecting costs. This bill directly affects Rhode Island residents who pay energy bills by directing state agencies to investigate cost-reduction strategies.

This House Resolution requests the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission to end a cost-sharing practice (called a "gas line extension allowance") where all gas customers pay for new gas line connections to serve new customers. The resolution cites the state's 2025 Climate Action Strategy, which requires reducing gas use for home heating to meet emissions targets, and argues that new gas infrastructure locks in long-term gas dependency beyond 2050. The request is directed to the Commission as part of its pending rate review (Docket 25-45-GE) for utility rate adjustments.

Requires that the electric distribution company and the commission promulgate tariffs to address interconnection of energy storage systems and to provide compensation for at least 100 mega watts of energy storage systems sited in the state.

Requires electric and gas utilities to provide a detailed breakdown of supply, delivery, and public policy costs on electric and gas bills, including specific costs for renewable energy sources, and mandate public comment and PUC approval.