NC H220

Cities and counties are prohibited from adopting ordinances that restrict consumers' choice of energy service based on the type or source of energy (natural gas, renewable gas, hydrogen, liquefied petroleum gas, electricity, or other sources) delivered to individual end-users.

Exceptions to energy choice restrictions allow cities and counties to choose energy for their own property, recover reasonable permit review costs, manage city/county-owned utilities, and enforce existing electric service supply contracts executed before the effective date.

Public records exemptions are expanded to exclude specific engineering, vulnerability, or detailed design information about critical infrastructure for energy production, water treatment, and wastewater systems from disclosure.

The Utilities Commission may adopt procedures allowing residential property lessors to charge tenants for water, sewer, electric, and natural gas service costs using methods similar to utility billing, including flat rates, administrative fees, and proration among multiple unit occupants.

The act becomes effective January 1, 2022.