AR HB1984

Authorizes the Arkansas Public Service Commission to propose, develop, solicit, approve, require, implement, and monitor financial assistance programs for utility customers age 65 or older or who meet Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program income eligibility qualifications.

Prohibits the Commission from fixing rates, charges, or surcharges that recover costs of financial assistance programs from ratepayers not eligible to participate in those programs.

Grants the Commission authority to order, require, promote, or engage in energy conservation programs and measures specifically for benefit of utility customers age 65 or older or who meet Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program income qualifications.

Allows utility companies to increase rates or charges to recover energy conservation program costs from consumers who have not opted out of utility-sponsored energy conservation programs and measures.

Clarifies exemption criteria for nonresidential business consumers who have accepted and returned amounts received from utilities for energy conservation program installations, financing, or rebates/incentives.