81R11048 TJS-D
By: Strama H.B. No. 4330
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to a study concerning the feasibility and viability of
certain time-differentiated pricing schemes for electric service.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. (a) The independent organization certified
under Section 39.151, Utilities Code, for the ERCOT power region
shall conduct a study concerning the feasibility of the adoption of
time-differentiated pricing, including real-time pricing, critical
peak pricing, and time-of-use pricing schemes, by an investor-owned
electric utility, a retail electric provider, a municipally owned
utility, an electric cooperative, or a river authority that
provides electric utility services.
(b) In conducting the study required by this Act, the
independent organization shall consider:
(1) the current condition of the industry in this
state;
(2) prior studies that have been conducted on the
issue of time-of-use pricing; and
(3) any other information that the independent
organization determines is necessary.
(c) At the independent organization's request, the Public
Utility Commission of Texas or other agency shall provide
information and assistance in conducting the study under this Act.
(d) Not later than January 1, 2011, the independent
organization shall report the results of the study conducted under
this Act to the 82nd Legislature. At a minimum, the report must
include recommendations concerning specific steps that can be
taken, by statute or rule, to achieve maximum consumer and utility
savings by transitioning to time-differentiated pricing in this
state.
SECTION 2. This Act expires January 1, 2011.
SECTION 3. This Act takes effect September 1, 2009.