Texas House Bill HB1728

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/23/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/11/11
• Voted on by House: 5/12/11
• Refer: 3/10/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/21/11
• Report Pass: 4/6/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/24/11
• Engrossed: 5/12/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/13/11
• Report Pass: 5/21/11
• Enrolled: 5/29/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to energy savings performance contracts and energy efficiency planning.

Impact

The new legislation modifies existing state laws to allow more flexibility for local governments and school administrations in managing their energy consumption and operational costs. By enabling the use of ESPCs, the bill encourages educational institutions to adopt more sustainable practices without the immediate burden of upfront costs. This is expected to foster a culture of sustainability while also freeing up public funds for other essential services and programs, achieving operational efficiency in the long run.

Summary

House Bill 1728 focuses on enhancing energy efficiency and promoting water conservation within public facilities, particularly schools. It introduces provisions for energy savings performance contracts (ESPCs) that local governments and school districts can enter into for implementing energy and water-saving measures. The bill stipulates that the estimated savings from these measures must cover the costs involved over a specified duration, aiming to ensure that investment in energy and water efficiency results in tangible financial benefits. This is particularly relevant in an era of rising utility costs and increasing environmental concerns.

Conclusion

Overall, HB1728 is positioned as a proactive step towards improving energy efficiency across Texas' public sectors, particularly schools. If implemented successfully, it could serve as a significant advance in promoting environmental responsibility while also creating a framework for financial and resource management that could set a precedent for future legislation.

Contention

While the bill appears to have broad support due to its focus on efficiency and cost savings, there may be concerns related to the procurement process and the financial implications for long-term contracts. Opponents could argue that such contracts may tie local governments into agreements that limit financial flexibility or that they might favor certain vendors over others. Additionally, the requirement for a guaranteed return on investment might present challenges in assessment and accountability, especially if future energy savings do not meet projections.