Renewable energy developers should take note of a new North Carolina Utilities Commission order.

Earlier this week, the Commission amended three of its filing requirements for new electric generators. The changes were issued on Monday, July 30 in order E-100, Sub 134. The order amends Rules R8-61, R8-63 and R8-64 which deal with applications for certificates of public convenience and necessity.

Applicants for certificates of public convenience and necessity (CPCNs) are now required to submit additional site information to include the site’s proposed boundary and the layout of infrastructural improvements. Site information should include the locations of the generator, fuel handling equipment; and planned/existing pipelines, roads, water supplies and electric facilities.

The new rules should allow the public and government agencies to more easily assess the potential effects of the proposed projects. Government agencies review and comment on CPCN applications through the State Environmental Clearinghouse.

The amended rules become effective on Sept. 1, 2012.

Click here to read the order. Download a copy of NCUC's presentation on the rule changes here.

**Small wind would need to file a report of proposed construction per Rule R8-65. These filing requirements remain unchanged in the recent NCUC order.