HB 21-1269 Summary

• Directs the Public Utilities Commission to open an investigatory docket by January 15, 2022, to study the viability of Community Choice Energy (CCE) in Colorado, focusing on the wholesale, opt-out model where communities can choose alternative electricity suppliers while the incumbent utility maintains distribution and delivery.

• Requires the Commission to solicit input from diverse stakeholders including local governments, utilities, environmental and consumer advocates, renewable energy developers, and operational CCE authorities in other states to ensure a balanced, evidence-based study.

• Mandates the Commission explore 23 specific topics including regulatory oversight scope, exit fees for departing customers, consumer protections, financing challenges, transmission access requirements, and impacts on low-income households and employment.

• Requires the Commission to submit a final report with findings, conclusions, and recommendations to the legislature by December 15, 2022, with possible majority and dissenting views if necessary.

• Appropriates $48,391 from the general fund for the Public Utilities Commission to conduct the study (0.5 FTE staff plus operating expenses) and automatically repeals this section on September 1, 2024.