HB1370 Summary

• Amends the Arkansas Renewable Energy Development Act of 2001 to rename it the "Cost-Shifting Prevention Act of 2023" and establishes new regulations for net-metering customers to prevent cost-shifting to non-participating ratepayers.

• Sets capacity limits for net-metering facilities: 25 kW or 100% of highest monthly usage (residential); 5,000 kW or 100% of highest monthly usage (non-residential); allows up to 20,000 kW in limited circumstances approved before December 31, 2022.

• Requires electric utilities to separately meter and charge net-metering customers for fixed utility costs through a "monthly grid charge" calculated based on avoided costs, while allowing net-metering customers to retain renewable energy credits.

• Creates the "Customer Protections for Net-metering Customers Act" requiring vendors to provide 5-business-day evaluation periods, conduct energy efficiency audits, disclose complete cost and savings information, and hold required permits and bonding.

• Declares an emergency effective upon Governor's approval to prevent unjust and unreasonable rates; requires Arkansas Public Service Commission to approve modified rate schedules by December 31, 2023.