Every week, Stateside Associates will feature energy-related legislative, regulatory, and federal programs impacting state and local public policies and proceedings, including upcoming Groups events, activities, and conversations in This Week in Energy.
For more information on our Energy Practice, please contact Taylor Beis.
Generation
LEGISLATIVE
California’s SB 1350, introduced on February 20, expands the definition of a "renewable electrical generation facility" to include facilities that convert hydrogen gas into electricity using a turbine. To qualify, hydrogen must be derived from non-fossil resources or water electrolysis powered by renewable energy. The measure also mandates that electrolytic hydrogen production demonstrate hourly matching with renewable generation starting January 1, 2030. The measure passed the Senate on May 27 and held a hearing on June 22 in the Assembly Natural Resources Committee.
New Hampshire’s HB 1535, introduced on January 7, redefines "electric renewable energy classes" to include geothermal, methane gas, and solar thermal energy, provided the facility began operations after January 1, 2013. After passing both the House and Senate, the measure was signed into law by Governor Ayotte on June 19.
Affordability
LEGISLATIVE
HB 2113, in Arizona, was introduced on January 12. The measure requires the Residential Utility Consumer Office Director to intervene in rate cases where a proposed residential increase is 100% or more. The measure passed both chambers on June 12. The legislature passed the measure on June 12, but Governor Hobbs vetoed it on June 19. Though supportive of the policy itself, Hobbs cited concern because the bill failed to provide necessary dedicated funding.
Large Load and Data Centers
LEGISLATIVE
In Arizona, SB 1418, introduced on January 28, limits county zoning restrictions on certain small modular reactors co-located with large load customers. The measure also allows utilities to construct these reactors or replace existing thermal generating units without new environmental certificates or hearings under specified location and capacity conditions. The measure passed both chambers and was sent to Governor Hobbs on June 12. Governor Hobbs vetoed the legislation on June 19, stating that the bill's catch-all approach to an emerging technology is irresponsible for an all-of-the-above energy strategy.
Electricity and Market Issues
LEGISLATIVE
Pennsylvania’s HB 2429, introduced on April 20, requires electric distribution companies serving over 100,000 customers to develop and maintain an online distribution system hosting capacity map by July 1, 2027. The bill directs the Public Utility Commission to establish uniform statewide reporting standards, mandates non-discriminatory access for grid-related businesses, and an enforcement process for violations. The measure passed the House on June 10 and was referred to the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee on June 18.
Permitting and Siting
LEGISLATIVE
In New Jersey, AB 5188, introduced on June 1, requires electric utilities to obtain a Board of Public Utilities (BPU) certificate before constructing supplemental transmission projects. The bill establishes application requirements, cost-recovery incentives, and definitions for advanced grid technologies, while setting a 180-day deadline for BPU decisions. The measure held a hearing on June 23 in the Assembly Appropriations Committee.
GROUPS EVENTS
There are no upcoming energy-related Groups events.
For more information on upcoming events, contact Taylor Beis.
