Section 17.08 - Long-term Contracts and RPS Requirements(1) A distribution company's obligation to enter long-term contracts is separate and distinct from its obligation to meet RPS requirements.(2)220 CMR 17.00 will not limit consideration of other short- or long-term contracts for power and/or RECs submitted by a distribution company for review and approval by the Department.(3) If RPS requirements terminate, a distribution company's obligation to solicit long-term contracts shall also cease. However, contracts already executed and approved by the Department will remain in full force and effect.(4) If a distribution company has entered into long-term contracts consistent with St. 2008, c. 169, § 83, it shall not be required by regulation or order to enter into contracts with terms of more than three years to meet its annual RPS requirements, pursuant to M.G.L. c. 25A, § 11F, unless the Department finds that such contracts are in the best interests of customers. Electric distribution companies may voluntarily execute long-term contracts to meet applicable annual RPS requirements, subject to the Department's approval.(5) Distribution companies shall not be obligated to enter into long-term contracts under St. 2008, c. 169, § 83 that would, in the aggregate, exceed 3% of total annual energy demand (in megawatt-hours) from all distribution customers in the service territory of the distribution company.