Connecticut sets new rules for renewable power programs and projects

The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority would establish successor programs for residential, nonresidential, and community solar projects. Residential customers, low-income customers, certain multifamily residents, businesses, state and local governments, agricultural customers, and community-solar subscribers are covered. Residential projects generally may not exceed 25 kilowatts per dwelling unit and must not exceed the customer's annual electric load. Nonresidential projects generally may not exceed five megawatts and must meet the program's load and procurement rules. Community-solar subscribers would be limited to low-income customers, and the authority may prioritize customers with unpaid electric bills. Electric distribution companies may recover reasonable program costs from all of their customers through electric rates. The authority must begin the proceedings by August 1, 2026, issue final orders by December 1, 2027, and require the companies to offer the new tariffs beginning January 1, 2028; tariffs may last up to 20 years and generally continue through December 31, 2035.

The Connecticut Green Bank would run a limited residential battery-storage pilot, and state officials would study a possible longer-term program. The pilot would serve residential solar customers who participated in specified renewable-energy programs, with preference for households in environmental justice communities. The pilot would be limited to $2 million in total spending. Participating households would receive battery systems at no cost under the pilot. The Green Bank must report on the pilot and recommend whether to create a permanent program. The pilot would end February 1, 2028, or when the report is submitted, whichever comes first; a working group would then review the results and report its recommendations.

Customers could use one qualifying portable solar device behind an electric meter without an interconnection agreement or utility approval. The device must be a portable solar unit rated at no more than 1,200 watts, connected through a standard 120-volt outlet, and meet building, electrical, testing, and outage-safety standards. Only one device may be used behind a customer's meter. Utilities could not charge related fees, require extra equipment, or require approval before use, but they would not be responsible for damage or injury caused by the device. Building, fire-safety, and local rules would still apply, and excess generation may be charged as electricity use unless the customer has net metering. These portable-device rules would take effect October 1, 2026.