Louisiana House Bill HR167

Louisiana 2012 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/31/12
• Passed: 6/1/12

Caption

Urges and requests the Dept. of Natural Resources, with the Public Service Commission, to adopt rules and regulations to ensure high levels of energy security in critical government facilities through implementation of on-site combined heat and power systems

Impact

The implementation of combined heat and power systems in these critical facilities is expected to offer substantial energy savings and ensure that the facilities can maintain operations under stress. This resolution promotes an energy-efficient approach to facility management, as it calls for assessing the cost-effectiveness of such systems compared to their operational and maintenance costs over a long-term period. By pushing for government facilities to adopt these technologies, HR167 aims to enhance resilience against power disruptions.

Summary

House Resolution 167 urges the Department of Natural Resources, alongside the Public Service Commission, to develop rules and regulations that enhance energy security in critical government facilities through the adoption of on-site combined heat and power systems. This resolution specifically targets facilities that play a significant role in public health and safety, such as hospitals, police stations, and emergency shelters, particularly during natural disasters when electrical grid outages may occur.

Sentiment

General sentiment around HR167 appears to be supportive, primarily among legislators who recognize the importance of energy security for public safety. The presentation of the bill reflects a proactive approach to ensure that critical infrastructures are not compromised during emergencies. While no significant opposition was noted in the available records, the resolution is more about urging action than imposing strict mandates, which tends to garner broader appeal.

Contention

One notable point of contention could arise around the cost implications of implementing combined heat and power systems. While the resolution suggests that expected energy savings should outweigh the costs, the initial investment and ongoing maintenance can be a concern for some government entities operating under budget constraints. Additionally, the dialogue around energy sourcing and technologies may lead to diverse opinions on what constitutes optimal energy security for critical facilities.