Senate committee approves solar permit process, advances net‑metering amendments; 500 kW/3 GW limits left for further work

The Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee on an unspecified date approved amendments that would create a permit‑by‑notification process for certain solar panel installations and advanced a larger net‑metering package after review by the Department of Energy.

Committee members adopted amendment 0474s to Senate Bill 65, an amendment described during the meeting as creating a permit‑by‑notification process for installing solar panels and addressing runoff concerns tied to earlier language. The amendment passed by voice vote; senators present responded “Aye” and the amendment was recorded as adopted and the bill moved forward “as amended.”

Members also advanced a more extensive amendment, labeled 0501s in committee, to a separate net‑metering bill. The sponsor said the amendment consolidates testimony from industry and the Department of Energy and incorporates wording changes suggested by DOE staff. Committee discussion focused on which…