§ 42-140.2-1 - Findings. - Rhode Island Statutes

SECTION 42-140.2-1

   § 42-140.2-1  Findings. – It is hereby found and declared that:

   (a) Distributed generation can if well implemented,contribute to electric system reliability and efficiency and have systembenefits including, but not limited to, reduced congestion, improved managementof system peak demands through demand response, and added capacity thatmitigates the needs for additional central generating capacity in the region;

   (b) Distributed generation from renewable resourcesdiversifies the power sources for electrical generation, and having multiple,reliable sources of power for electrical generation reduces risks and cantemper price volatility;

   (c) Distributed generation from renewable resources and fromcombined heat and power systems can reduce the environmental impacts, includinggreenhouse gas emissions, of electrical generation;

   (d) The system benefits of distributed generation are afunction of the location of the distributed generation capacity, thereliability and the efficiency of distributed generation facilitiesindividually and/or collectively, and the time of operation of the distributedgeneration facilities;

   (e) The value of distributed generation can vary with changesin the wholesale and retail markets for electricity;

   (f) Properly designed regulatory and financing programs fordistributed generation can have both system benefits and economic benefits forentities.

   (g) The independent system operator of New England has statedthat mitigating peak demand should be a central strategy in reducing wholesaleelectricity and has established a demand response to accomplish this purpose.

   (h) Established tariffs and embedded principals for ratesetting and cost allocation may present substantial barriers to realizing thefull potential of distributed generation in Rhode Island.