RI S2655

Expands Energy Facility Siting Board authority to regulate replacement, rebuild, or expansion of existing high-voltage transmission lines (69 kV or greater), not just new construction

Requires distribution and transmission companies proposing capital improvements to conduct cost-effectiveness analyses comparing traditional investments against advanced conductors, grid-enhancing technologies, and energy storage alternatives

Mandates the Public Utilities Commission, coordinating with the Office of Energy Resources, to investigate advanced conductors and grid-enhancing technologies for transmission systems, with a report due to the General Assembly by September 1, 2027

Requires distribution companies filing infrastructure, safety, and reliability plans starting in fiscal year 2028 to investigate grid-enhancing technology implementation to meet Rhode Island's greenhouse gas reduction mandates under the 2021 Act on Climate

Adds statutory definitions for grid-modernization terms including "advanced conductor" (at least 10% lower electrical resistance), "dynamic line rating," "topology optimization," and "grid-enhancing technology," and requires energy facility applicants to consider these alternatives and demonstrate alignment with regional grid planning needs