Texas House Bill HB66

Texas 2021 - 87th 2nd C.S.

Caption

Relating to demand response programs.

Impact

The bill modifies existing regulations in the Utilities Code to provide customers with clearer information about their rights and options regarding demand response participation. This includes procedures for recognizing critical care residential customers and critical load industrial customers. By formalizing these procedures, the bill aims to better equip customers for managing their electricity usage effectively, especially during high-demand moments when energy shortages may occur.

Summary

House Bill 66 aims to enhance the procedures and programs related to demand response initiatives within the state of Texas. The bill mandates that electric utilities, including municipal and cooperative utilities, inform their customers about the options available for voluntary demand response programs. These programs are designed to encourage customers to reduce electricity consumption during peak demand periods, which is particularly important for maintaining grid stability during involuntary load shedding events.

Contention

One area of contention surrounding HB66 is the balance between customer participation in demand response programs and the utility's responsibility to manage electricity supply effectively. Proponents argue that providing this information empowers consumers and helps mitigate potential issues in energy supply during peak times. Conversely, concerns may arise regarding the potential complexities of enrollment in these programs and whether all customers, particularly vulnerable populations, will adequately receive the resources and information needed to participate fully.