Senate Bill 678 Summary

• Expands the definition of "clean energy" to include nuclear energy and fusion energy facilities alongside renewable energy resources in North Carolina's Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard (CEPS).

• Modifies coal combustion residuals surface impoundment closure deadlines for nine specific Duke Energy facilities, extending deadlines ranging from 2029 to 2038 depending on the facility.

• Establishes a new application fee structure for dam construction, repair, alteration, and removal at 2.25% of actual construction costs (capped at $50,000), replacing the previous fee schedule.

• Requires Local Government Commission approval before local governments can cede or transfer control of public enterprises to nongovernmental entities, and prohibits local governments from using nondisclosure agreements to restrict access to public records.

• Exempts Utilities Commission employees and Public Staff from certain state classification and compensation rules established by the State Human Resources Commission.