Connecticut House Bill HB05361

Connecticut 2010 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/25/10
• Refer: 2/25/10

Caption

An Act Establishing A Municipal And State Energy Efficiency And Improvement Program.

Impact

The implications of HB05361 on state law include the establishment of a structured framework to facilitate energy efficiency upgrades in public sector facilities. By allowing electric distribution companies to fund up to 100% of the costs associated with improving energy efficiency, the bill provides financial mechanisms that promote local contractor engagement and bolster regional economic development. The structured funding model also ensures that municipalities can recover costs through customer-specific facility charges, mitigating budgetary pressures on state and local governments.

Summary

House Bill HB05361 introduces a Municipal and State Energy Efficiency and Improvement Program aimed at enhancing energy efficiency measures across municipal and state facilities. The bill enables electric distribution companies to collaborate with these facilities to implement energy-efficient technologies, thus lowering their energy costs. Key components of the program will involve the installation of various efficiency measures and renewable energy systems, including fuel cells and combined heat and power systems, promoting both sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

Contention

There may be some points of contention regarding the administrative efficiency and effectiveness of the proposed program. Stakeholders may debate the adequacy of the funding mechanisms and whether they are sufficient to incentivize participation from myriad municipal and state entities. Potential criticisms might center on the complexity involved in negotiating terms with electric distribution companies, as well as concerns about the initial cost outlays versus long-term savings achieved through energy efficiency improvements.