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7/13/2020
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Senate passes Sosnowski legislation on net metering, airport zoning for Block Island
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 STATE HOUSE — The Senate today passed two bills pertaining to Block Island that were introduced by Sen. V. Susan Sosnowski (D-Dist. 37, New Shoreham, South Kingstown).
The first (2020-S 2547aa) would amend the airport zoning law to add the terms “approach” and “approach zones” to mean airport land and airspace as defined by the Federal Aviation Administration.
“This bill will allow for safe runway length and continued maintenance to accommodate flights,” said Senator Sosnowski. “This will keep our airports safe and operating at peak efficiency. This is particularly important for the people of New Shoreham, since the Westerly Airport is a lifeline to Block Island, between emergency airlifts and transports to Block Island residents, prescription deliveries and tourism.”
The second (2020-S 2504) would amend the maximum peak load of allowable capacity for the net metering systems in the Block Island Utility District to not exceed a maximum. Net metering is a billing mechanism that credits solar energy system owners for the electricity they add to the grid.
“Currently state law restricts net metering for private solar and wind installations at three percent of a utility’s peak output,” said Senator Sosnowski. “The Block Island Utility District Board of Commissioners have been developing a new policy for further installations. In order for that to happen, we need to lift the cap on net metering beyond the allowed three percent.”
Both bills now move to the House of Representatives for consideration.
For more information, contact:
Daniel Trafford, Publicist
State House Room 20
Providence, RI 02903
(401)222-1922
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