HB 21-1324 Summary

• Authorizes the Public Utilities Commission to review and approve investor-owned utilities' applications for innovative energy technology projects in areas economically affected by accelerated retirements of coal generation facilities.

• Defines "innovative energy technology" as zero-emission generation or storage technology not widely deployed in the U.S., excluding stand-alone wind, solar, or lithium-ion battery storage.

• Limits aggregate nameplate capacity of approved innovative energy technology projects to 300 megawatts and caps utility returns at levels equivalent to photovoltaic solar or wind facilities of equivalent capacity.

• Requires utilities to present projects as part of electric resource planning addressing how projects mitigate transition impacts, support workforce transition plans, and comply with section 40-2-129 requirements.

• Mandates use of employees or qualified contractors with registered apprenticeship programs for project construction and expansion; requires Commission completion of rule-making on apprenticeship standards before approving any construction.

• Sunsets the provision on December 31, 2024, and takes effect 90 days after final adjournment, subject to voter approval if a referendum petition is filed.