Oklahoma Senate Bill SB1799

Oklahoma 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/7/22
• Refer: 2/8/22

Caption

Energy efficiency; modification to performance based efficiency contracts and projects. Effective date.

Impact

The modifications proposed by SB1799 would have significant implications for how state agencies and school districts manage their energy resources. By establishing clearer guidelines on performance-based contracts, the bill seeks to facilitate the easier implementation of energy conservation measures. The changes made to the definitions and terms set forth in the bill would potentially encourage more aggressive adoption of energy-saving technologies in public facilities, leading to reduced utility costs over time.

Summary

Senate Bill 1799 aims to amend existing statutes related to energy efficiency in Oklahoma, specifically focusing on the criteria and regulations governing performance-based efficiency contracts. This includes defining energy conservation measures, which involve various improvements and retrofits to public buildings that are designed to lower energy consumption and operational costs. Such measures may include advances in insulation, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, as well as energy-efficient lighting and air quality improvements.

Contention

Some points of contention could arise regarding the provisions that ensure performance and savings guarantees from the contractors. The bill requires that a contractor must guarantee the cost savings achieved through the implemented measures, which can subject the providers to financial risk. Furthermore, the stipulations about tracking savings, annual reports, and the potential for lease-purchase agreements might bring concerns over the fiscal responsibility of school districts and the adequacy of defined energy savings calculations.