Senate Bill 493 Summary

• Reorganizes the Public Utilities Control Authority into the Connecticut Energy and Technology Authority with two divisions: Public Utility Control and Research, Energy and Technology, effective July 1, 2011.

• Establishes renewable energy procurement requirements including 150 megawatts of Class I renewable energy contracts and 4.35 million solar renewable energy credits from customer-sited solar projects by 2021.

• Creates residential solar photovoltaic incentive program targeting 30 megawatts of new installations by December 31, 2021, with performance-based incentives funded through renewable energy surcharge.

• Implements energy efficiency standards for 19+ product categories (appliances, lighting, equipment) aligned with California regulations, with enforcement beginning July 1, 2006 and later.

• Establishes municipal sustainable energy programs allowing communities to finance energy improvements through special property assessments, and requires low-income discounted electricity rates for households earning under 60% of median income.