Amendment ID: S2477-112

Amendment 112

Consider Renewables Before Approving Pipelines

Ms. Comerford and Mr. Pacheco move that the proposed new draft be amended in section 43, by inserting after the word "regulation" in line 567 the following:-

“The department shall not approve a contract unless the department finds that:

(i) such contract is necessary and cost-effective for ratepayers;

(ii) such contract compares favorably to other reasonably available options in terms of its impact on rates, the economy, environment, climate, local communities, public health, safety and welfare;

(iii) the applicant has identified and evaluated alternatives that would reduce or eliminate the need for private land takings or public land disposition including, but not limited to, fuller and more long-term utilization of existing infrastructure, distribution system repairs, and enhancement of peak shaving measures; and

(iv) for contracts exceeding a term of 3 years, the applicant has reasonably evaluated demand-side options to reduce or eliminate the need for new infrastructure.

To aid in the department's determination under this section, any gas company seeking department review of a contract that requires the construction or expansion of gas infrastructure shall first hold a competitive solicitation for non-gas alternatives. Such competitive solicitations shall seek energy solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and that address the considerations enumerated in subpart (i) through (iv) above.”.