Texas Senate Bill SB221

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Filed: 11/10/08

Caption

Relating to the requirement that retail water and utility services maintain auxiliary generators for use during an extended power outage.

Impact

If enacted, SB221 will amend the Texas Water Code to enforce strict requirements on public utilities. This act is expected to lead to a substantial increase in operational reliability, likely reducing the risk of service interruptions during emergencies. Additionally, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is tasked with establishing specific operational standards for these generators, including their minimum capacity and the duration for which they must be functional during outages. The implementation of this bill is likely to involve significant investments from affected utilities, which may impact their operational costs.

Summary

SB221 aims to enhance the reliability of retail water and sewer utilities during extended power outages by mandating the installation of auxiliary generators. This legislation requires that public utilities holding a certificate of public convenience and necessity, as well as affected counties or districts, maintain on-site generators capable of supporting essential water and sewer operations when the primary power supply fails. The intent of the bill is to ensure that communities remain resilient and capable of providing vital services even in the face of severe weather events or unpredictable electrical failures.

Contention

While proponents of SB221 argue that it is a necessary step for enhancing public safety and environmental resilience, critics might raise concerns about the financial burden it imposes on smaller utility companies. There is a potential debate over the practicality of the requirements, especially for rural or financially constrained communities that may struggle to comply with the new regulations. Additionally, discussions may center on the timeline for compliance and the ability of the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to effectively set and monitor these standards.