Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB4098

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to distributed solar generation of electric power.

Impact

The implications of HB 4098 extend beyond the energy sector, as it aims to promote the adoption of solar technology in Texas schools. By permitting independent school districts to sell surplus electricity to electric utilities, the bill incentivizes the installation of solar panels on school facilities, thereby supporting clean energy initiatives. Furthermore, it could lead to cost savings for school districts by generating additional revenue from energy sales. Overall, the legislation is anticipated to contribute to the state's broader energy policies that favor renewable energy production.

Summary

House Bill 4098 focuses on enhancing the framework for distributed solar generation of electric power, specifically targeting independent school districts and the agreements they can make with electric utilities. The legislation seeks to amend existing provisions by establishing clear guidelines for net metering, which allows electricity consumers with solar panels to sell surplus energy back to the grid. This process facilitates the utilization of renewable energy sources while providing financial benefits to school districts as they engage in the generation and consumption of solar power.

Contention

Despite its focus on encouraging renewable energy, HB 4098 may face challenges related to implementation and costs associated with advanced metering. Some stakeholders may express concerns about the financial implications for school districts that opt for advanced metering systems necessary for participation in net metering. Moreover, while the bill simplifies regulations for selling back energy, it is crucial to ensure that all school districts have access to the required infrastructure and support to fully benefit from the new law. Additionally, the effectiveness of this bill in promoting sustainable energy practices will rely heavily on cooperation from electric providers and clarity in the agreed pricing structures for surplus energy.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB1212

Relating to the interconnection and integration of distributed energy resources.

TX HB2793

Relating to the interconnection and integration of distributed energy resources.

TX SB1752

Relating to the generation and transmission of electricity.

TX HB1500

Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.

TX SB1866

Relating to the use of customer-sited distributed generation facilities owned by certain non-ERCOT electric utilities.

TX HB4287

Relating to the use of customer-sited distributed generation facilities owned by certain non-ERCOT electric utilities.

TX SB1699

Relating to electricity service in the ERCOT power region, including the participation of aggregated distributed energy resources in the ERCOT market.

TX HB5190

Designating the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) as the entity responsible for the reliable supply of electricity in its interconnected area of responsibility, establishing a fund under ERCOT's control to fund a net 5,000 MWe of "dispatchable" "peaking unit" generating capacity owned by "Independent Power Producers", establishing the payment structure to such "Independent Power Producers" to fund the 5,000 MWe of "dispatchable" "peaking unit" generating capacity, establishing the criteria of operation and performance of the "peaking unit" generating capacity under ERCOT's direct control, and establishing criteria for review of ERCOT's performance in its duty to assure reliability of electricity supply.

TX SB6

Relating to the establishment of the Texas Energy Insurance Program and other funding mechanisms to support the construction and operation of electric generating facilities.

TX SB2014

Relating to the legislature's goals for renewable electric generating capacity.

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