NC S673

Authorizes natural gas utilities to recover capital costs for constructing natural gas infrastructure serving large manufacturing projects through a rate adjustment surcharge mechanism approved by the North Carolina Utilities Commission.

Limits eligible projects to those with at least $200 million in private investment, at least 1,500 full-time employees, average weekly wages at 110% of county average, and health insurance covering at least 50% of premiums.

Restricts individual utility investments to $25 million per year with a statewide aggregate cap of $75 million, with annual rate adjustments not exceeding 5% of total service margin revenues.

Authorizes no more than three eligible projects under the program and requires businesses to meet occupational safety standards and environmental impact requirements.

Act effective upon passage and expires July 1, 2021, though existing rate surcharge mechanisms remain valid after expiration.