Representative Morrow introduces PUC fee changes for certificates of public good; committee seeks PUC testimony

Representative Morrow told the committee she plans a package of EUC-related bills and introduced a bill that directly incorporates fee increases the Public Utility Commission submitted last session for certificates of public good (CPGs), including changes affecting rooftop solar applications and rooftop modifications.

Morrow described the proposal as "very simple" and said it draws on PUC requests to ensure the commission is properly resourced. Committee members asked the PUC to describe how the fee calculations were derived, how much revenue the changes would raise, and whether the increases—particularly for rooftop modifications, which were noted to rise in discussion from $25 to $200 in prior requests—would unintentionally hinder small or low-cost system changes.

Why it matters: Fees for CPGs affect the administrative cost of permitting rooftop and distributed-generation solar and could influence decisions by homeowners and installers. Members asked for the PUC's rationale and any analysis of potential effects on solar deployment; one member noted the $200 fee would likely be a small portion of installation cost for full rooftop systems but could be a larger share for minor modifications.

Next steps: The committee will invite the Public Utility Commission to testify and asked to see revenue and impact estimates before scheduling further consideration. No vote occurred at the introduction.