Louisiana House Bill HB901

Louisiana 2016 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/4/16
• Refer: 3/4/16
• Refer: 3/14/16

Caption

Authorizes certain governmental entities to install solar energy farms on their property

Impact

The implementation of HB 901 is expected to have significant implications for state law and the operational procedures of the mentioned entities. By explicitly authorizing these organizations to develop solar farms, the bill encourages the transition to renewable energy sources and aligns state operations with evolving sustainability goals. It also sets a legal framework supporting governmental efforts to utilize available real estate effectively while contributing toward state and national energy independence.

Summary

House Bill 901 seeks to broaden the capacity of various governmental entities within Louisiana to harness solar energy by allowing certain state boards and departments to establish solar energy farms on properties they control. This includes the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, the Department of Health and Hospitals, airport authorities, and the Board of Governors for state prisons. The measure aims to facilitate the installation of solar panels and capitalize on existing tax incentives before they expire, promoting renewable energy initiatives across multiple sectors of state governance.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 901 appears to be positive, with supporters highlighting its potential to advance renewable energy initiatives and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Advocates argue that by empowering state entities to utilize solar energy, the bill aligns with broader environmental objectives. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential costs associated with the installation and maintenance of these solar farms, alongside discussions on the specific roles and responsibilities that fall under each authority's purview.

Contention

One notable point of contention revolves around the financial commitments and administrative oversight needed for establishing solar farms. Critics have questioned whether state agencies are adequately equipped to manage these projects and whether this legislative action might divert essential resources from other critical public needs. Furthermore, discussions in legislative circles hint at a broader debate on the balance between state-driven energy initiatives and local governance autonomy, potentially complicating the execution of this bill at various jurisdictional levels.