Texas Senate Bill SB1821

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/9/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/15/09

Caption

Relating to a study and a pilot project with regard to, and the implementation of policies to promote, the adoption of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.

Impact

The bill could significantly influence state laws regarding energy usage and transportation. By necessitating the evaluation of existing transmission and distribution grids, it prompts an important discussion on how electricity generation and distribution will accommodate an influx of hybrid vehicles. The results of the study could lead to recommendations aimed at adjusting state infrastructure to better support electric vehicle charging, likely resulting in new legislation to create incentives for off-peak charging to alleviate grid stress.

Summary

SB1821 is a legislative proposal aimed at studying and promoting the adoption of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) in Texas. The bill tasks the commission with evaluating current infrastructures and policies that may impact the wide-scale adoption of these vehicles, defining PHEVs based on their battery capacity and charging capabilities. Importantly, the bill addresses not only the technological facets but also the environmental implications of increased PHEV adoption, with a focus on improving air quality, especially in regions that may be facing air quality nonattainment issues.

Contention

Certain points of contention may arise from stakeholders concerned with the costs and implications of overhauling current energy infrastructure to accommodate a new wave of vehicles. Utilities may voice concerns regarding the additional burdens on transformers and grid maintenance, while environmental advocates could push for the legislation to not only support PHEVs but also set ambitious goals for reducing emissions. In this context, the balancing act between advancing transportation technology and addressing the realities of energy management is a central theme of the discussions surrounding SB1821.