Rhode Island § 39-34-1 - Vegetation Management for Electric System Reliability

§ 39-34-1. Legislative findings.

The general assembly finds and declares:

(1) Global climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of storm events, and is increasing the number of harmful pests and fungi that threaten local trees and other vegetation;

(2) Tree-related damage is the leading cause of power outages, and these risks are amplified during storm events;

(3) Power restoration efforts are vital; however, these efforts are costly endeavors for local ratepayers and for our economy;

(4) More comprehensive and statewide vegetation management standards and practices can reduce the likelihood of power outages, drive utility cost efficiencies, enhance public safety, and help reduce ratepayer costs;

(5) Electric system reliability is paramount for a modern and vibrant economy, and is critical to the safety and well-being of all citizens — particularly as society’s dependence on the grid increases due to the electrification of transportation, heating, and other energy demands; and

(6) A uniform and streamlined process for authorizing the electric distribution company’s management of vegetation that encroaches upon or is likely to encroach upon electric distribution system equipment will help drive system and cost efficiencies across the grid and ensure communities and property owners are treated equitably across the state.