CT HB07036

Electric distribution companies may submit plans to acquire new fuel cell electricity generation (beginning operation on or after July 1, 2017) for distribution system benefits, with total capacity not to exceed 30 megawatts aggregate; costs recovered through fully reconciling electric rate components.

Redefines "Class II renewable energy source" to include only trash-to-energy facilities with proper permits, removing previous provisions for biomass and run-of-the-river hydropower facilities.

Increases renewable energy portfolio standards for Class II sources from 3% to 4% beginning January 1, 2018, and establishes tiered non-compliance penalties: 5.5 cents per kilowatt-hour for Class I and 2.5 cents per kilowatt-hour for Class II sources (effective January 1, 2018).

Requires ratepayer impact statements for bills with financial impacts on electric ratepayers, beginning with the 2019 legislative session, prepared by the Office of Fiscal Analysis and subject to two-thirds vote waiver.

Extends renewable energy credit procurement contracts to 7 years total, increases aggregate procurement caps, and authorizes procurement of fuel cells, offshore wind, anaerobic digestion, and energy storage systems; allows certificates to be retained or sold based on ratepayer benefit.