PORTSMOUTH — The Rhode Island Energy Facility Siting Board (EFSB) will hold a public hearing at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Aug. 27, at the Portsmouth Middle School Little Theatre Auditorium to gather public input on the idea of a moratorium on new natural gas connections on Aquidneck Island.

The question emerged during hearings last year on Rhode Island Energy’s license to operate a liquefied natural gas (LNG) vaporization facility on Old Mill Lane, which was approved in August 2024. Some argued that pairing energy efficiency measures with a moratorium on new connections could reduce the risk of gas shortages and eventually eliminate the need for the LNG facility.

The EFSB has not made any decision and no formal moratorium proposal is on the table, but members said the issue remains open for consideration. Officials are weighing whether the potential benefits of limiting new gas hookups outweigh the impacts on residents, businesses, and the island’s economy.

While all are welcome to comment, the board is particularly interested in hearing from Aquidneck Island residents and business owners who would be directly affected.

All of the materials filed in Docket SB-2021-04
are on file and available here.

Requests for interpreter services for the hearing impaired must be made to the coordinator at 89 Jefferson Boulevard, Warwick at 401/780-2108 or Kristen.L.Masse@puc.ri.gov at least 72 hours in advance of the hearing.