CT HB05505

Department of Economic and Community Development, in consultation with Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, shall establish a pilot program to leverage private capital for funding solar energy projects in the state.

Commissioner must identify five proposed solar energy projects by September 1, 2020, each with an aggregate nameplate capacity rating between 100 and 250 megawatts.

Commissioner must issue a request for proposals by October 1, 2020, allowing property owners with at least 200 acres and their municipalities to jointly apply as project locations, including information on lease/purchase costs, municipal fees (capped at 5% of project cost or $10 million, whichever is less), and annual property taxes.

Commissioner must develop a plan by January 1, 2021, to expedite permitting, grid connectivity, and approval processes, and solicit competitive bids from private solar developers to construct and operate the identified projects.

Commissioner must submit a report by January 1, 2021, to joint standing committees on commerce, energy, and environment detailing identified projects, submitted proposals, and recommendations for legislative proposals to continue the pilot program.