The Public Utilities Commission adopted amendments to regulations governing the implementation of a renewable energy standard. The amendments reflect statutory changes enacted in June 2022 by changing the annual percentages of renewable energy required to achieve a 100% renewable energy standard by 2033. See https://rules.sos.ri.gov/regulations/part/810-40-05-2.

The Department of Environmental Services proposed to readopt, with amendments, regulations governing grants for surface water treatment, regional water systems, and groundwater investigations. The amendments would make minor editorial changes to make it possible for the Department to continue to pay out grants. A hearing will be held June 26, 2024. Comments are due July 12, 2024.

The Department of Environmental Services proposed to readopt, with amendments, regulations governing public water system classification and design. The amendments would, among other things, update, clarify, and restructure the design and construction standards for public water systems, including the requirements for well construction, water quality, and storage capacities. A hearing will be held June 26, 2024. Comments are due July 12, 2024.

The Department of Environmental Services proposed to readopt, with amendments, regulations governing backflow prevention. The amendments would, among other things, update and clarify the responsibilities of public water systems to prevent backflow, require annual reports to include the number of backflow prevention devices being tested, remove certain reporting requirements, and allow additional tester certifications and protocols. A hearing will be held June 26, 2024. Comments are due July 12, 2024.