Substitute Bill No. 5356 Summary

• Expands Class I renewable energy sources to include fuel cell power plants (as defined in 26 USC 48(c)(1)(C)) and removes the construction date restriction for nuclear power generating facilities, effective October 1, 2024.

• Modifies run-of-the-river hydropower eligibility to include facilities that received a new Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license after January 1, 2018, provided they meet state and federal requirements including dam safety and fish passage standards.

• Removes the December 31, 2024 expiration date for the 5 percent Class III renewable energy source requirement for electric distribution companies and suppliers, making it permanent effective October 1, 2024.

• Requires the Commissioner of Energy and Environmental Protection to study natural gas capacity in Connecticut and submit recommendations to the energy and technology joint standing committee by January 1, 2025.