Energy (Wind)

HB 7727 establishes a 15-member commission to study policies and procurement structures for Rhode Island's offshore wind energy development, aiming to secure 1,200 megawatts by 2030. The commission will evaluate key areas including procurement authority, cost containment, workforce development, infrastructure needs, and multi-state coordination, with annual reports due starting in 2027. Its recommendations will guide the state's energy office in creating regulations to implement procurement strategies, ensuring alignment with climate goals and economic development priorities. The commission expires December 31, 2030, unless extended by the legislature.

SB 2661 establishes a study commission to examine offshore wind energy procurement in Rhode Island. The bill creates the "Affordable Clean Energy Security Act" to direct the commission to study how public utilities and carriers can implement offshore wind energy projects. This study will assess potential policies and strategies for Rhode Island's energy transition, directly affecting the state's public utilities and transportation carriers. The bill is currently in the Senate Environment and Agriculture committee after being introduced on February 27, 2026.