Introduction: The New England Eyes and Ears Digest The Eyes and Ears Digest is a comprehensive collection of our weekly Eyes and Ears Flash Updates. Digests contain the content from all the regular Flash Updates and Special Flash Updates from a 7-8 week cycle. In any given cycle, we may write more than once about a piece of legislation, regulatory proceeding or other update. The final article appearing in the Digest is “consolidated”- that is, we’ve fused all its articles together into one and removed any extraneous or now outdated information. To consolidate an article, we begin by focusing on the main takeaway or development that transpired during the cycle. That main development or takeaway serves as the focal point for any consolidated article - we do not include content from a Flash Update that is no longer relevant. This can include scheduling that has now occurred (e.g. discovery, comment deadlines, hearings) and in instances where a docket or issue has been resolved, we do not include comment summaries. Instead of repeating information that is no longer relevant, we center our consolidation on creating succinct articles that get to the heart of the matter and provide clients with the key takeaways from any given topic. When we do not include a full stakeholder comment summary, we provide a reference back to the specific Flash Update (or Special Flash Update) from which it came to allow interested subscribers the ability to quickly find it. The Eyes and Ears Digest is meant to act as a comprehensive guide to the past 7-8 weeks of key regulatory, legislative and policy updates in New England. We aim to include no new information in Digest articles and instead, write about new content in an upcoming Flash Update. In some cases, it is pertinent for us to include new material information or insight. In these cases, we place a large green diamond in front of the title and mark the Digest status bar as “New E&E Content”. Click here for a sample of a Flash Update article, and then click here out to see its final consolidated form in the Digest.
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Introduction: The New England Eyes and Ears Digest
The Eyes and Ears Digest is a comprehensive collection of our weekly Eyes and Ears Flash Updates.
Digests contain the content from all the regular Flash Updates and Special Flash Updates from a 7-8
week cycle. In any given cycle, we may write more than once about a piece of legislation, regulatory
proceeding or other update. The final article appearing in the Digest is “consolidated”- that is, we’ve fused
all its articles together into one and removed any extraneous or now outdated information.
To consolidate an article, we begin by focusing on the main takeaway or development that transpired
during the cycle. That main development or takeaway serves as the focal point for any consolidated
article - we do not include content from a Flash Update that is no longer relevant. This can include
scheduling that has now occurred (e.g. discovery, comment deadlines, hearings) and in instances where
a docket or issue has been resolved, we do not include comment summaries.
Instead of repeating information that is no longer relevant, we center our consolidation on creating
succinct articles that get to the heart of the matter and provide clients with the key takeaways from any
given topic. When we do not include a full stakeholder comment summary, we provide a reference back
to the specific Flash Update (or Special Flash Update) from which it came to allow interested subscribers
the ability to quickly find it.
The Eyes and Ears Digest is meant to act as a comprehensive guide to the past 7-8 weeks of key
regulatory, legislative and policy updates in New England. We aim to include no new information in Digest
articles and instead, write about new content in an upcoming Flash Update. In some cases, it is pertinent
for us to include new material information or insight. In these cases, we place a large green diamond in
front of the title and mark the Digest status bar as “New E&E Content”.
Click here for a sample of a Flash Update article, and then click here out to see its final consolidated form
in the Digest.
SEA Eyes & Ears Sample Flash Email
From: Bob Grace Sent: Monday, May 1, 2017 Subject: SEA Eyes & Ears/Flash No. 60.5 Week Ending April 28, 2017
**Flash Update** Dear Eyes and Ears Subscribers: Flash 60.5 Week Ending April 28, 2017
Time sensitive articles are identified with the following icon:
Flash 60.5 Week Ending April 28, 2017
Contents
Massachusetts
• Hearing scheduled on May 2 on community empowerment, bioenergy and natural gas bills
• Additional bills proposed to increase RPS and further regulate biomass production
• 83D bidder's conference clarifies questions on RFP; possible participation by CT and/or RI being discussed
• Governor Baker announces initiatives to make renewable energy more affordable and accessible
• Kinder Morgan moving ahead with pipeline plans after FERC issues notice to proceed, despite lack of a quorum
• DPU issues schedule for National Grid Solar Phase II cost recovery proceeding
• MassCEC announces participants in next rounds of Solarize and Solar Connect programs
• Department of Agricultural Resources announces RFP for entity to run Massachusetts Farm Energy Program, bids due May 22
• Eversource to host next distributed generation interconnection seminar May 10
Connecticut
• PURA schedules May 9 hearing on EDCs power procurement plans, provided stakeholders make formal request by May 1
Rhode Island
• Bills to study carbon pricing and establish a statewide solar permit recommended for passage, votes scheduled for May 3
• Newly filed bills would restrict EDCs from entering ratepayer-backed long-term natural gas contracts, and expand potential uses for RGGI funds to EE, RE and EV purposes
• Bill modifying EDC supply procurement and allowing time-of-use rates recommended for passage, vote not yet scheduled
• Bills providing siting standards and modifying land use tax for agricultural renewable systems held for further study
Maine
• Commenting stakeholders support maintaining or increasing RPS levels, while House Republican Leader introduces text to alter Class I RPS targets while introducing REC multipliers based on in-state jobs created by generators
• Stakeholders split on support/opposition of generation ownership, advise caution regarding generation ownership bill
• Bills filed for NTA coordinator, solar procurement, and procurement restrictions, hearing scheduled May 3
• Jonesboro closure reportedly due to boiler leak, plant to resume operations shortly, PUC grants request to alter payment arrangement
Vermont
• Bill to review and update Act 250 making progress through Senate
• VEPP Inc. issues 2017 Standard Offer RFP after PSB denies REV's second reconsideration request
• PSB resumes interconnection rulemaking process (rule 5.500), schedules workshop on May 2
New Hampshire
• PUC rejects Eversource bid for reconsideration in Eversource/HQ PPA proceeding
• SEC suspends prior order granting Certificate of Site and Facility to Antrim Wind; schedules May 5 hearing on stakeholder motions for rehearing.
Navigation: Top Stories / MA / CT / RI / ME / VT / NH / NY / ISO / R&E
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Eyes & Ears Terms and Conditions
Eyes & Ears Service is provided to the Subscriber for the Subscriber’s internal use only, and may be distributed
to employees, officers and directors of Subscriber or Authorized Affiliate who have been made aware of the
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conditions stated in the Subscription Agreement.
• EDP withdraws Spruce Wind proposal from ISO-NE queue, although project could be refiled in future
• PUC requests comments due May 12 on final grid modernization report
• Final Northern Pass federal EIS expected by the end of the year
ISO New England & Regional Developments
• D.C. Circuit Court dismisses Transmission Owners' and NESCOE's petitions for review of ISO-NE's FERC Order 1000 compliance filing
• Clean Energy Coalition voices support for FERC revisions to Large Generator Interconnection Procedure
• Bill Introduced in Congress would require PACE loans to submit to regulations placed on mortgages, passage unlikely
• TransCanada 584 MW hydro portfolio sold to ArcLight Capital Partners
• RGGI presents updated draft results of 2017 Reference Case with significantly reduced allowance prices, and Proposed Policy Scenarios; final results expected in late summer
• NECA 2017 Annual Energy Conference scheduled for May 9 and 10
• NECEC and Foley Hoag to host Emerging Trends Series: Offshore Wind on May 11 in Boston and New York
• Renewable Energy Finance Forum scheduled for June 20-21
• Wind Energy Update posts presentations from April 19 webinar on offshore wind
Navigation: Top Stories / MA / CT / RI / ME / VT / NH / NY / ISO / R&E
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Headlines
Time sensitive articles are identified with the following icon:
MASSACHUSETTS
Hearing scheduled on May 2 on community empowerment, bioenergy and natural
gas bills
The Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy has scheduled a hearing for May 2, 2017
from 1:00 pm-05:00 pm in room A-2. The hearing includes consideration of the following bills, among others:
▪ H.1745 - An Act for community empowerment and S.1834 – An Act for Community
Empowerment (companion bills) - As introduced, the bill would provide, following a majority vote of a
municipality’s citizens, for long-term contracts between new renewable energy projects and municipalities
on behalf of the electricity customers within the municipality (a concept last discussed in Digest 55).
▪ H.2703 - An Act relative to encouraging greater renewable energy production in rural
Massachusetts - As introduced, the bill would allow bioenergy gasification facilities that are qualified as
RPS Class I by DOER to net meter.
▪ H.3637 - An Act relative to conservation and natural gas infrastructure - As introduced, this bill would
require gas companies to repair leaks and pursue conservation methods before adding new natural gas
capacity in any given municipality.
83D bidder's conference clarifies questions on RFP; possible participation by CT
and/or RI being discussed
A bidders’ conference was held April 25, 2017 to provide information on the Section 83D Request for Proposals
For Long-Term Contracts For Renewable Energy Projects ("83D RFP"), last discussed in Flash 60.1. At the
conference, DOER Commissioner Judith Judson gave introductory remarks, and then members of the
Evaluation Team – primarily Jeff Waltman of Eversource and Tim Brennan of National Grid, as well as Lisa
Glover of Unitil - reviewed key components of the RFP and associated issues, as summarized in the
detailed bidders conference presentation slides, which comprised the bulk of the meeting. . A list of attendees
is available on the 83D website.
The evaluators also took questions from attendees. While the session was well-attended, only a few questions
were posed, as potential bidders exhibited caution in tipping their hands to their competitors in what is shaping
up to be a very competitive procurement. Most bidders appeared to be saving their questions to be submitted
and answered in writing (as the hosts noted that any responses at the bidders conference were indicative, and
Navigation: Top Stories / MA / CT / RI / ME / VT / NH / NY / ISO / R&E
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Clean Energy Coalition voices support for FERC revisions to Large Generator
Interconnection Procedure
During the week ending April 14, 2017, a Clean Energy Coalition (CEC), consisting of the Advanced Energy
Economy (AEE), the Energy Storage Association (ESA), the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), and
the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) submitted comments in Federal Energy Regulatory
Commission (FERC) Docket No. RM17-8-000 to explore proposed reforms to Large Generator Interconnection
Procedure (LGIP). Comments supported the FERC revisions to the interconnection process and focused on the
following areas:
▪ The proposed rule would allow a more cost-effective deployment of both energy storage and renewable
energy systems;
▪ The reduction in interconnection barriers will translate into lower costs for consumers; and
▪ will help transition "to a more efficient, resilient, and affordable energy grid".
As last discussed in Flash Update 60.4, on April 13, 2017, ISO-NE submitted comments and
recommendations on FERCs ongoing deliberation.
Regards, Bob Grace
Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC 161 Worcester Road, Suite 503 Framingham, MA 01701 ********************************************************** Robert C. Grace – President and Managing Director Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC Tel 508.665.5855 Fax 508.665.5858 mobile 617.803.8900 [email protected] www.seadvantage.com
➢ Connecticut - House passes bill expanding existing C-PACE statute
➢ ♦ Connecticut - Bill requiring DEEP to complete CT Green Plan for best practices of energy
infrastructure siting referred to Committee on Appropriations
➢ Rhode Island - Senate passes bills requiring the study of carbon pricing and establishing a statewide solar permit; House committee recommends passage of solar permit companion bill
➢ Rhode Island - House passes bill removing restrictions on residential TOU rates and continuing
requirement for National Grid to file procurement plans
➢ Rhode Island - Senate passes bill expanding Renewable Energy Growth program, advances to House for consideration
➢ Rhode Island - PUC unanimously accepts Docket 4600 Working Group final report on rate
design, issues further directives to National Grid and the Division
➢ Rhode Island - OER and Division hold initial meetings on Power Sector Transformation (PST) Initiative, materials now available; late May Technical Sessions scheduled
➢ Maine - Utilities, environmental groups support bill authorizing regional procurements, but are
hesitant to endorse wind siting provisions
➢ Maine - Stakeholders express support for bill to establish Maine Energy Office, tempered with concerns over funding and scope
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ Maine - Commenting stakeholders other than Governor support bills either maintaining or increasing RPS levels; House Republican leader introduces text to increase Class I RPS gross targets, while the impact of REC multipliers based on in-state jobs created by generators could mean no net gain
➢ Maine - Wind production tax bill voted Ought Not to Pass
➢ Maine - Generation ownership bill receives split support/opposition from stakeholders, most advise caution
➢ Maine - Long term contracting limitation bill reported out with Ought Not to Pass recommendation
➢ Vermont - Forest protection bill to create stricter permitting requirements passes the House
➢ Vermont - Bill to review and update Act 250 (H.424) passes both chambers, awaiting Governor
Scott's consideration
➢ Vermont - Legislature passes bill transforming Vermont PSB into Vermont PUC, calls for siting reforms and report on storage; awaits Governor's signature
➢ Vermont - DPS requests PSB review of utility rate regulation, proceeding awaits appointment of
new Chair
➢ Vermont - VEPP Inc. issues 2017 Standard Offer RFP after PSB denies REV's second reconsideration request, REV appeals to Vermont Supreme Court
➢ New Hampshire - PUC rejects Eversource motion for reconsideration in Eversource/HQ PPA
proceeding
➢ New Hampshire - National Grid proposes 1,200 MW "Granite State Power Link" transmission project as apparent competitor to Northern Pass
➢ New Hampshire - Bill to change restructuring principles retained by House Committee on
Science, Technology, and Energy, would clear path for Eversource/HQ PPA via NPT, appears unlikely to return in 2018 session
➢ New Hampshire - House committee considering key energy bill featuring an increase to the solar
RPS, an increase in ACPs for Class III facilities; bill garners support from biomass and timber industries, opposition from House Republicans
➢ New Hampshire - Bill establishing committee to study duration of subsidies for energy projects
under the state RPS awaiting Governor's signature after undergoing materially important technical correction
➢ New Hampshire - SEC declines to reconsider Antrim Wind approval, intervenors may appeal to
NH Supreme Court; Antrim to drop out of CE RFP after contracting to other buyers
➢ New Hampshire - Final Northern Pass federal EIS expected by the end of the year
➢ New York - NYSERDA and DPS issue Final Clean Energy Standard Phase 1 Implementation Plan for 2017; Albany Engineering seeks Tier 1 eligibility for a repowered hydro facility; PSC denies ESCO request for a stay of ZEC compliance obligation
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ New York - Stakeholders suggest revisions to PSC "Value of DER" Order; comments on rehearing and/or reconsideration due June 19; Phase Two organizational conference held May 23
➢ New York - Issuance of NYSERDA and NYPA renewables RFPs further delayed; expected to be issued in May
➢ New York - NYSERDA files Phase 2 Implementation Plan Proposal
➢ New York - LIPA releases Integrated Resource Plan; will meet CES requirement primarily through
procurement of offshore wind
➢ ISO releases discussion paper on Substitution Auction concept ahead of May 17 IMAPP Meeting
➢ ISO & Regional – At FERC’s Technical Conference, stakeholders stake out positions on regulators’ roles addressing state policy impacts on wholesale markets
➢ ISO & Regional - RGGI presents updated draft results of 2017 Reference Case with significantly reduced allowance prices, and Proposed Policy Scenarios; final results expected in late summer
Other Featured Topics… MASSACHUSETTS
➢ ♦ Now Available: 2017 Massachusetts E&E Legislative Activity Overview
➢ Bill would establish tax on fossil fuels and Clean Energy Trust, remove EDC net metering caps
and 2 MW maximum Class III net metering facility limit
➢ Status of Other Renewable Energy Legislation
o Several bills heard in committee with no further action
o Bills proposed, awaiting hearing
➢ SMART program emergency regulations delayed again until mid-May; negotiations regarding ultimate clearing price break down
➢ Public net metering cap met in National Grid territory, solar industry hoping for small cap increase to cover SREC-II projects without net metering cap allocation until SMART begins
➢ Section 83D RFP tilts toward hydro or hydro-backed wind; bidder's conference held, proposals
due July 27
➢ EDCs file proposed offshore wind solicitation under section 83C, Independent Evaluator files report finding solicitation to be satisfactorily fair, open, and transparent
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ Stakeholders file reply comments in DPU's PURPA investigation; Allco clashes with EDCs on long-term avoided cost rate methodology and contract term
➢ At DPU technical conference on blanket exception to “single-parcel” net metering rule, solar
industry stakeholders, AGO and DOER express support, while EDCs oppose changes and DPU stresses gaming concerns
➢ Stakeholders file testimony addressing many concerns with Eversource rate case proposals
➢ Avangrid announces 50% ownership stake in Vineyard Wind
➢ Court rules in favor of Falmouth's Wind 1; many additional cases still pending as turbine
continues to sit idle
➢ BOEM issues draft supplemental environmental impact statement for Cape Wind, hundreds of comments received
➢ DEP amends RGGI regulations to encourage CHP
CONNECTICUT:
➢ ♦ Now Available: 2017 Connecticut E&E Legislative Activity Overview
➢ Omnibus bill currently awaiting action by Senate, renewable energy provisions to move to
separate legislative vehicle if support falters for nuclear support provisions
➢ ♦ Bill requiring DEEP to complete CT Green Plan for best practices of energy infrastructure siting
referred to Committee on Appropriations
➢ ♦ Senate amends and passes bill which alters approach to advertising green power and timing of
RPS annual reporting; bill subsequently placed on House calendar for consideration
➢ House passes bill expanding existing C-PACE statute
➢ House passes bill to remove Q5 borrowing as RPS compliance tool, bill now awaits deliberation by Senate
➢ DEEP proposing draft amendment partially removing proposed restrictive siting criteria for utility-
scale solar
➢ Stakeholder concerns grow that large state budget deficit could lead to raid on CGB and RGGI funds
➢ Several renewable energy bills reported out of the LCO, placed on House and Senate calendars
for consideration
➢ ♦ EDCs’ compliance filings detailing year 5 LREC/ZREC bids available
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ EDCs issue year 6 LREC/ZREC RFP, bids due June 8
➢ EDCs encourage submission of additional applications to the still under-subscribed Year 5 Small
ZREC program
➢ Stakeholders submit comments in support of PURA-proposed revisions to RPS compliance and voluntary green products market regulations
➢ PURA issues draft decision certifying CGB SHREC facilities as Class I resources
➢ DEEP presents on clean energy RFP and small resources RFP at PURA technical conference,
EDCs to submit CERFP contracts to PURA 60 days after submission of small resources RFP contracts
➢ PURA stays portions of net metering banking decision related to solar customers
➢ Solar developers express disappointment after revised SCEF RFP receives fewer bids than initial
RFP
RHODE ISLAND:
➢ ♦ Now Available: 2017 Rhode Island E&E Legislative Activity Overview
➢ Senate passes bill expanding Renewable Energy Growth program, advances to House for
consideration
➢ Senate passes bills requiring the study of carbon pricing and establishing a statewide solar permit; House committee recommends passage of solar permit companion bill
➢ Senate passes bill establishing a statewide solar permit; House committee recommends passage
of companion bill
➢ House passes bill removing restrictions on residential TOU rates and continuing requirement for National Grid to file procurement plans
➢ House Finance Committee recommends passage of amended bill modifying PACE
➢ Draft of interconnection bill indicates potential compromise in long-running interconnection
dispute
➢ Bill prohibiting the use of ratepayer recovery mechanisms for natural gas-related infrastructure withdrawn at sponsor's request
➢ Status of Other Renewable-Energy-Related Legislation
o Bills Filed and Awaiting Hearing
o Bills Held for Further Study or Committee Consideration Postponed
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ PUC unanimously accepts Docket 4600 Working Group final report on rate design, issues further directives to National Grid and the Division
➢ OER and Division hold initial meetings on Power Sector Transformation (PST) Initiative, materials now available; late May Technical Sessions scheduled
➢ PUC approves National Grid's request to allow Renewable Energy Growth program RECs to be
used directly for SOS RPS compliance
➢ Southern Sky Renewables files a Petition for Declaratory Judgement on net metering for public facilities
➢ 30 MW Community Net Metering program now live; General Assembly holds bill raising cap for further study
➢ Draft state building code includes 3-foot setback rule for residential rooftop solar
➢ Providence opts into RIIB C-PACE program; information session and workshop held May 3 & 4
➢ Orbit Energy requests Renewable Energy Resource eligibility for Johnston anaerobic digester facility
➢ West Warwick passes moratorium on wind development
MAINE:
➢ 2017 Maine Legislative Activity Overview
➢ Representative Berry files highly anticipated solar bill intended to overturn PUC's net energy billing decision
➢ Community solar procurement bill supported by most stakeholders, but CMP and GEO opposed;
back-up solar bill also presented
➢ Utilities, environmental groups support bill authorizing regional procurements, but are hesitant to endorse wind siting provisions
➢ Commenting stakeholders other than Governor support bills either maintaining or increasing RPS
levels; House Republican leader introduces text to increase Class I RPS gross targets, while the impact of REC multipliers based on in-state jobs created by generators could mean no net gain
➢ Bill to codify separation of permitting processes for wind and transmission facilities voted ought
not to pass despite EDC support
➢ Stakeholders express support for bill to establish Maine Energy Office, tempered with concerns over funding and scope
➢ Energy Committee unanimously rejects bill to ban Aqua Ventus project
➢ Wind production tax bill voted Ought Not to Pass
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ Bill making GridSolar a statewide “smart grid coordinator” receives split reviews from stakeholders
➢ Stakeholders weigh in on non-transmission alternatives bill at April 4 hearing
➢ Long term contracting limitation bill reported out with Ought Not to Pass recommendation
➢ Bill extending deadline for natural gas pipeline cost rate recovery signed into law
➢ Testimony reflects confusion on microgrid bill
➢ Utility ownership clarification bill generally supported by stakeholders, committee votes Ought To
Pass As Amended
➢ Generation ownership bill receives split support/opposition from stakeholders, most advise caution
➢ PUC issues supplemental bench memo and sets schedule for consideration of NTA coordinator
➢ CLF files appeal of PUC’s refusal to reconsider net metering order with Maine Supreme Court
➢ Stored Solar granted alteration of payment arrangements under biomass rescue contracts with
CMP, Jonesboro plant temporarily offline due to economics, boiler leak
➢ Sappi Somerset biomass generator granted Class I status under refurbishment provisions
➢ GridSolar files final report on Boothbay smart grid pilot project, highlighting significant savings and resource portability
VERMONT:
➢ General Assembly Wrapping Up Legislative Session
➢ Senate amends unrelated efficiency bill to codify PSB net metering proposal, and House concurs, sending bill for Governor’s signature
➢ Bill to review and update Act 250 (H.424) passes both chambers, awaiting Governor Scott's
consideration
➢ Legislature passes bill transforming Vermont PSB into Vermont PUC, calls for siting reforms and report on storage; awaits Governor's signature
➢ Forest protection bill to create stricter permitting requirements passes the House
➢ DPS requests PSB review of utility rate regulation, proceeding awaits appointment of new Chair
➢ GMP files traditional rate case requesting 5% increase; costs include those incurred for
transmission, capacity payments, and increased net metering incentive payments
➢ PSB files proposed wind sound rule with Secretary of State, sets schedule for additional hearings and comments
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ VEPP Inc. issues 2017 Standard Offer RFP after PSB denies REV's second reconsideration request, REV appeals to Vermont Supreme Court
➢ PSB resumes interconnection rulemaking process (rule 5.500), requests comments by June 16
➢ PSB issues order authorizing GMP purchase of hydro facilities, Allco appeals decision to Vermont
Supreme Court
➢ PSB orders sound monitoring in Sheffield wind dispute
➢ PSB dismisses Swanton Wind petition for VT long-term contract
➢ Ranger Solar's 20MW Coolidge project approved by PSB
NEW HAMPSHIRE:
➢ Now Available; 2017 New Hampshire E&E Legislative Activity Overview
➢ House committee considering key energy bill featuring an increase to the solar RPS, an increase in ACPs for Class III facilities; bill garners support from biomass and timber industries, opposition from House Republicans
➢ Bill establishing committee to study duration of subsidies for energy projects under the state RPS
awaiting Governor's signature after undergoing materially important technical correction
➢ Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources determines amended REC production reporting bill ought to pass Senate, amendment strikes disclosure of confidential contractual terms on REC transactions
➢ Bill to change restructuring principles retained by House Committee on Science, Technology, and
Energy, would clear path for Eversource/HQ PPA via NPT, appears unlikely to return in 2018 session
➢ Bill regarding the usage of energy efficiency funding for RE projects reported out of Senate
Committee as Ought to Pass
➢ Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources refers bill on wind energy systems back to itself, clarifying that more stakeholder input is needed
➢ House tables budget bill reallocating REF funds to low-income ratepayer assistance
➢ PUC rejects Eversource motion for reconsideration in Eversource/HQ PPA proceeding
➢ Stakeholders file briefs restating their positions in net metering successor proceeding
➢ SEC declines to reconsider Antrim Wind approval, intervenors may appeal to NH Supreme Court;
Antrim to drop out of CE RFP after contracting to other buyers
➢ PUC grants comment extension deadline on final grid modernization report
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ National Grid proposes 1,200 MW "Granite State Power Link" transmission project as apparent competitor to Northern Pass
➢ Alexandria biomass plant set to (temporarily) close April 30, citing insufficient revenue to support
continued operation
➢ EDP Renewables withdraws Spruce Wind proposal from ISO-NE queue
➢ Final Northern Pass federal EIS expected by the end of the year
➢ PUC staff requests reallocation of REF FY 2017 program budgets
➢ Eversource stranded cost recovery and energy service charge proceedings
o PUC approves charges for 2015
o 2016 stranded cost recovery and energy service charges request filed, decision appears unlikely until 2018
ISO NEW ENGLAND, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS:
ISO AND NEPOOL ARTICLES
➢ At FERC’s Technical Conference, stakeholders stake out positions on regulators’ roles addressing state policy impacts on wholesale markets o Participation by New England stakeholders o Overall take-aways from the technical conference o Next steps
➢ ISO releases discussion paper on Substitution Auction concept ahead of May 17 IMAPP Meeting
➢ ♦ IMAPP meeting held May 17 as NESCOE submits feedback on IMAPP proposals; agenda and
materials available
➢ ISO-NE to delay interconnection clustering proposal filing until FERC quorum restored, introducing a potential barrier to Massachusetts Section 83D proposals
➢ ISO-NE Planning Advisory Committee meets, discusses Economic Study sensitivities in carbon
pricing and Least-Cost, Emissions-Compliant scenarios
➢ NEPOOL Markets Committee directs NEPOOL GIS Operating Rules Working Group to consider eliminating cap on quarterly REC deposits in GIS retail subaccounts, WG discussion held May 19
➢ ISO files with FERC answer to NEPGA comments on CONE and ORTP filing
➢ ISO-NE files comments in response to FERC NOPR on interconnection reforms for large
generators
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
➢ ISO staff provides insights into 2016 Economic Study’s Phase I results at March Restructuring
Roundtable
➢ ISO-NE releases 2017 CELT Report, annual load forecasted to decline on average by .64% per year; forecast omits any consideration of electrification load
➢ ISO-NE releases final 2017 PV Forecast, increasing forecast of regional total PV capacity to 4.7
GW AC by 2026 OTHER REGIONAL ARTICLES (NESCOE, etc.)
➢ Generators petition U.S. Appellate Court of D.C. to review FERC orders relating to renewables exemption from Minimum Price Offer Rule in FCM
➢ NESCOE hosts webinar summarizing results of Renewable and Clean Energy Scenario Analysis and Mechanisms 2.0 Study Phase I: Scenario Analysis Report
➢ NESCOE will not request Public Policy Transmission Study, says no state or federal public policy
requirements driving transmission needs in ISO-NE
NATIONAL ARTICLES
➢ President Trump intends to nominate Robert Powelson and Neil Chatterjee as FERC commissioners
➢ Maryland PSC approves US Wind and Deepwater Wind offshore wind projects totaling 368 MW,
authorizes 20-year OREC price; approval subject to conditions including in-state job creation and infrastructure investments
➢ Bill Introduced in Congress would require PACE loans to submit to regulations placed on
mortgages, passage unlikely
➢ TransCanada 584 MW hydro portfolio sold to ArcLight Capital Partners
➢ DOE Secretary Perry requests study of reliability and baseload power closures
➢ SEC probing SolarCity and Sunrun over disclosure of contract cancellations
➢ Gaz Métro Acquires Standard Solar RGGI ARTICLES
➢ RGGI presents updated draft results of 2017 Reference Case with significantly reduced allowance prices, and Proposed Policy Scenarios; final results expected in late summer
➢ Stakeholders provide comments on RGGI program review, with some calling for a 5% decrease in the annual emissions cap
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
REPORTS & EVENTS:
➢ ♦ UPCOMING EVENTS
o Massachusetts
▪ Senate Committee on Global Warming and Climate Change schedules "Clean Energy Future Tour" throughout May and June
o Rhode Island ▪ OER to hold public hearing to determine allocation of RGGI proceeds on June 1
o New England, Regional, and National
▪ LBNL to host webinar on "Regulatory Incentives and Disincentives for Utility Investments in Grid Modernization" on May 31
▪ Renewable Energy Finance Forum scheduled for June 20-21
▪ NWRC schedules webinar on offshore wind vessels and the potential to reduce costs of development
➢ PREVIOUS EVENTS AND REPORTS
o Massachusetts ▪ Technical Standards Review Group holds meeting May 16
o Rhode Island
▪ OER releases Study of Renewable Energy Installation Quality in the Renewable Energy Growth Program
▪ OER releases land-based wind siting guidelines o Maine
▪ PUC’s 2015 annual RPS report shows nearly all 2015 Class I RECs produced by biomass
o Vermont
▪ SunShot Initiative-funded Statewide Solar Pathways study released
o New York ▪ NYSERDA releases annual reports on renewables programs, while NYISO Load
Forecast shows impact of NY Sun on system peaks
▪ NYSERDA to release report this summer assessing New York offshore wind offtake options
o New England, Regional, and National ▪ BOEM releases report on socioeconomic impact of OSW development on
fisheries in the Atlantic
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
▪ LBNL releases report comparing resource risk of renewable and gas-fired
generation
▪ NREL releases report on costs and barriers for residential solar photovoltaics with energy storage
▪ CGB issues guidebook for accelerating adoption of residential solar through
popular Solarize programs
▪ NREL releases 2016 State of Wind report, indexing development by region
▪ GTM releases report analyzing wealth of solar homeowners relative to non-solar homeowners
▪ Wind Energy Update hosts webinar on offshore wind
▪ NREL releases 2015 Cost of Wind Energy Review
▪ NREL issues new report analyzing relationship between solar installer pricing
and size of firm
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
MASSACHUSETTS
SMART program emergency regulations delayed again until mid-May; negotiations regarding ultimate clearing price break down (KEYWORDS: RPS, Solar, DG, LT Contracts, FIT, RECs, Storage, Solicitation, Utility Procurement) Consolidated/Last Updated: Flash 60.6 The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has been developing a successor program
to the SREC-II program (see dedicated website), named the Solar Massachusetts Renewable Target
(SMART) Program. The emergency regulations are now expected to be released in mid-May, a delay of
two months relative to initial expectations. Given the number of decision-making steps involved in the
program development, approval and implementation of the Block 1 procurement process (discussed in
detail in Digest 60), any future delays beyond mid-May would likely push the start of the program to after
July 1, 2018.
DOER has been undertaking final revisions to the regulations in response to discussions among the
Administration, utilities, ratepayer advocates and solar industry participants on the structure of the initial
phase auction, and how the auction results will be used to establish the base incentive for the declining
block incentive (DBI). On April 26, 2017, Eversource and National Grid delivered a joint letter with the
Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) to DOER Commissioner Judith Judson listing eight
recommended parameters for the initial 100 MW solicitation process. The recommendations are designed
to limit speculative bidding, and are described in more detail in Flash Update 60.6.
Solar stakeholders, DOER and the EDCs have also been negotiating regarding the structure of the initial
procurement. As summarized in Flash Update 60.2, these negotiations focused on providing for a higher
auction ceiling price than described in Digest 60, in exchange for projects in the initial procurement being
paid as-bid instead of at the clearing price. Earlier reports of the negotiations suggested that the
benchmark for setting the initial DBI base rate would then be set at the midpoint between that ceiling price
and the capacity-weighted average of the winning bids. However, SEA has recently learned through
stakeholders close to the process that these negotiations have broken down, and that no more
discussions about initial procurement structure are likely to take place before the filing of the emergency
regulations.
Meanwhile, according to stakeholders close to the process, DOER may use this additional time to draft a
straw proposal for the on-bill crediting mechanism to be released when the agency releases the SMART
regulations (as further discussed in Flash Update 60.4).
Stakeholders also indicated that state legislators will likely wait to address net metering or any related
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
Section 83D RFP tilts toward hydro or hydro-backed wind; bidder's conference held, proposals due July 27 (KEYWORDS: Procurement, LT Contracts, Hydro, RPS, Solicitation, Transmission) Consolidated/Last Updated: Flash 60.5 The Massachusetts' electric distribution companies (EDCs) issued the Section 83D Request for
Proposals For Long-Term Contracts For Renewable Energy Projects ("83D RFP") on March 31, 2017, as
authorized by Chapter 188 of Session Laws 2016 - An Act to Promote Energy Diversity. The
issuance of the final RFP followed a March 27, 2017 Order from the Massachusetts Department of Public
Utilities (DPU) in Docket 17-32 approving the proposed timetable and method for solicitation with few
changes to the proposed RFP filed by the EDCs originally filed in February (See Digest 60). Bid
proposals are due July 27, 2017.
DOER held a bidders’ conference on April 25, 2017 to provide information on the RFP. At the conference,
DOER Commissioner Judith Judson gave introductory remarks, and then members of the Evaluation
Team – primarily Jeff Waltman of Eversource and Tim Brennan of National Grid, as well as Lisa Glover of
Unitil - reviewed key components of the RFP and associated issues, as summarized in the
detailed bidders conference presentation slides, which comprised the bulk of the meeting. A list of
attendees is available on the 83D website. The evaluators also took questions from attendees, which
were described in Flash Update 60.5.
DOER accepted written questions on the 83D RFP and voluntary, non-binding notices of intent to bid
through May 2, 2017. As we understand it, the utilities intend to respond to all questions posed (although
they will group similar questions).
While the bidders' conference was well-attended, only a few questions were posed, as potential bidders
exhibited caution in tipping their hands to their competitors in what is shaping up to be a very competitive
procurement. Most bidders appeared to be saving their questions to be submitted and answered in writing
(as the hosts noted that any responses at the bidders’ conference were indicative, and only written
responses could be relied upon).
The Evaluation Team also addressed questions relating to the possibility of other states potentially joining
the procurement process. The Evaluation Team referenced Footnote 8 in the RFP, which emphasizes
that Massachusetts will consider the participation of other states if that participation does not harm
Massachusetts ratepayers. If during the evaluation, the Massachusetts evaluation team determines multi-
state participation would cost-effectively achieve the Commonwealth’s clean energy goals, and if other
states express interest, a portion of selected projects may be allocated to EDCs located in other states.
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
Representatives of state agencies in Connecticut and Rhode Island have indicated a possible interest in
participating in the 83D RFP, though there are still many questions as to what (energy, capacity, or both)
and how those states would be able to procure under the solicitation. Pursuant to the Affordable Clean
Energy Security Act, signed into law in 2014, Rhode Island utilities are permitted to participate in multi-
state procurements for international large- or small-scale hydroelectric power as well as RPS-eligible
supply (see Digest 46 for more details). We note that the 83D solicitation could be a key means of
procuring sufficient renewable energy capacity to meet Governor Gina Raimondo’s recently-announced
aspirational goal of procuring 1,000 MW of renewable energy by 2020 (most recently discussed in Digest
60). The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) may be able to
participate using existing under the Connecticut Public Act 13-303 (Sections 6 and 7), Connecticut Public
Act 15-107, or other authority (including some proposed in the current legislative session).
We also note that the coordination between three states under the New England Clean Energy RFP, last
discussed in Digest 59, was extraordinarily challenging. Under this RFP, no such coordination is required.
It appears that the RFP and evaluation may somewhat tilt toward proposals that are either hydroelectric
or Class I firmed by hydroelectric over Class I only proposals, compared to the recent Clean Energy RFP
(see Digest 53). In addition, while solar dominated the recent Clean Energy RFP, based on our read of
the RFP features, we would expect hydro or wind firmed by hydro to grab a larger share of the ultimately
awarded volume under the Section 83D RFP.
Of note, in addition to the wind projects located in New England and Maine that had proposed into the
New England Clean Energy RFP, Windpower Monthly reports that Canadian wind projects may be
positioning themselves to bid, along with the anticipated Canadian hydro bids. Any bids for significant
amounts of Canadian hydropower would almost definitely include associated transmission lines to deliver
the power into the New England grid, and wind developers north of the border are reportedly considering
joining their projects into combined hydro-storage bids being planned for the solicitation.
As discussed in the ISO Section of this digest, ISO-NE will delay filing its clustering proposal to address
interconnection backlogs until a quorum has been restored at FERC, which may impact the ability of bids
to fulfill the RFP transmission, firmness and delivery requirements. The quorum would be restored if
President Trump's two pending nominations are put forth and approved.
CONNECTICUT
DEEP proposing draft amendment partially removing proposed restrictive siting criteria for utility-scale solar (KEYWORDS: Legislation, Solar, Siting) During the week ending May 5, 2017 stakeholders close to the legislative process circulated a draft
amendment proposed by the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to SB 943 -
New England Renewable Energy ‘Eyes & Ears’ Digest Sustainable Energy Advantage, LLC
Digest #61 – Thursday, May 25, 2017
An Act Concerning the Installation of Certain Solar Facilities on Productive Farmlands. As raised,
the bill would limit the use of prime farmlands and forest lands for utility-scale solar development. It would
prohibit the siting of facilities 2 MW or greater on prime farmland, unless applicants can provide evidence
that the development would not "materially affect the status of such land".
Instead of prohibiting outright all solar facilities larger than 2 MW, the draft amendment would allow any
solar facility larger than 2 MW and selected by DEEP pursuant to any existing procurement statute to
move forward. The amendment also includes provisions to allow virtual net metering on brownfields
(facilities of 3 MW or less) with an annual authorization of $3M per year for virtual net metering on
brownfields. The language in the linked amendment has not yet been acted on or been posted online.
The Joint Committee on the Environment favorably reported the bill out of committee on March 10. The
Legislative Commissioners' office subsequently reported the bill out on March 28. DEEP’s amendment
would, in theory, be attached as part of the bill for Senate consideration, or conceivably during the
conference committee process resolving differences between House and Senate language.
RHODE ISLAND
Senate passes bill expanding Renewable Energy Growth program, advances to House for consideration (KEYWORDS: Legislation, Solar, DG, LT Contracts, FIT, Utility Procurement) Consolidated/Last Updated: Flash 60.7 On May 11, 2017, the Rhode Island State Senate voted 31 to 3 to pass S. 112 Sub A – An Act Relating
to Public Utilities and Carriers – Renewable Energy Growth Program. As described in Digest 60, the
bill would extend the Renewable Energy Growth (REGrowth) program for ten years past its current
termination year of 2019 with an annual target of 40 MW – for a total of 400 MW. The Senate Committee
on Environment & Natural resources added an amendment to correct an error in the companion House
Bill H. 5274 and clarify the ten-year extension. The bill now goes to the House for consideration under the
jurisdiction of the House Committee on Environment & Natural Resources. This legislation is similar to a
bill passed by the Senate last year but never brought to a vote in the House (see coverage of S. 2181 in
Digest 55). According to stakeholders closely following the legislative process, the bill is expected to face
some opposition when it reaches the House. Given the overwhelming support in the Senate, its prospects
for passage are possible, but uncertain.
House passes bill removing restrictions on residential TOU rates and continuing requirement for National Grid to file procurement plans (KEYWORDS: Legislation, Rates) No Modifications/Last Updated: 60.6 On May 2, 2017, the Rhode Island House voted to pass H. 5642 - An Act Relating to Public Utilities
and Carriers - Public Utilities Commission - As introduced, the bill would extend the requirement on