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Senate hears SB 230 to authorize microgrids, including small modular reactors; utilities and DOE urge study before action
Summary
SB 230 would authorize microgrids for critical infrastructure and permit small modular reactors (SMRs) to power microgrids up to 300 MW under PUC approval. The Department of Energy and Eversource asked the committee to await a DOE microgrid study; sponsors said statutory clarity is needed so investors can evaluate projects.
Senator David Waters (District 4) introduced SB 230, legislation to authorize certain localized electric microgrids and to define small modular reactors (SMRs) within state law for microgrid applications. The bill would allow non‑utility entities that meet statutory guardrails to construct, operate and interconnect microgrids that serve multiple loads — up to 10 megawatts for renewable‑powered microgrids and up to 300 megawatts for SMR‑powered systems — subject to Public Utilities Commission review and conditions.
Sponsor’s intent: Waters told the committee the bill is designed to provide a clear statutory definition and approval pathway for microgrids so communities, critical infrastructure operators…
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