On May 16, 2017, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) issued an order (docket D.P.U. 17-10) instituting a rulemaking process to modify current net metering regulations (220 C.M.R. § 18.00) as they relate to hydropower. The new provisions would, for example: add the definition of “small hydroelectric net metering facility” to the current net metering regulations (to implement G.L. c. 164, § 139A. St. 2016, c. 188, § 10); define the capacity of all non-solar net metering facilities as the facility’s nameplate rating in alternating current; and add a new credit calculation for small hydroelectric net metering facilities.
The DPU is soliciting initial written comments on the Proposed Net Metering Regulations no later than 5:00 P.M. on Friday, June 30, and seeks reply written comments no later than 5:00 P.M. on Friday, July 14. Anybody wishing to file written comments must file an original and one copy with Mark D. Marini, Secretary, Department of Public Utilities, One South Station, Boston, Massachusetts, 02110. Written comments must also be filed in electronic format either via e-mail attachment to dpu@efiling@state.ma.us, Stacis.Rubin@state.ma.us, and Kate.Tohme@state.ma.us or via a CD-ROM. In either case, the text must specify the docket number (D.P.U. 17-10), the name of the person or company submitting the filing (and contact info), and a brief descriptive title of the document.
In addition, the DPU is scheduled to conduct a public hearing on Thursday, June 29 at 2:00 P.M. at the DPU’s offices. Interested persons may present related facts, opinions, or arguments at the public hearing. The DPU also intends to promulgate the final modifications to the current net metering regulations and direct electric distribution companies to file a revised model to reflect these final modifications. For more on the DPU’s order, proposed revisions, and questions for the public, please visit http://170.63.40.34/DPU/FileRoomAPI/api/Attachments/Get/?path=17-10%2f1710_Order_51617.pdf.
