AN ACT RELATING TO PUBLIC UTILITIES AND CARRIERS -- PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION

HB 5814 requires Rhode Island's Public Utilities Commission (PUC) and Division of Public Utilities and Carriers (DPUC) to complete a comprehensive study by April 30, 2026, aimed at identifying ways to lower energy rates for consumers. The study must review all state energy programs to find those increasing costs, compare Rhode Island's rates with other states, and recommend eliminating policies that raise bills. It allocates $100,000 for consultants to conduct this research and mandates that future energy-related legislation include "energy notes" showing cost impacts, similar to fiscal notes. This bill directly affects Rhode Island ratepayers and state energy policy through its focus on transparent cost analysis and program evaluation.