Texas Senate Bill SB1351

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to demand-side electric energy resources in the competitive electric market.

Impact

If enacted, SB1351 would significantly influence state laws by modifying the existing regulatory mechanisms that utilities must follow to achieve energy efficiency goals. The bill mandates the Public Utility Commission to develop rules that facilitate load participation in energy markets, and it establishes oversight measures to ensure compliance. This could lead to utilities having more incentives to innovate and improve their energy efficiency programs, potentially resulting in lower costs for consumers and better resource management.

Summary

SB1351 aims to enhance the regulatory framework governing demand-side electric energy resources within Texas's competitive electric market. Specifically, the bill introduces amendments to the Utilities Code that allow for increased load participation across various customer classes—residential, commercial, and industrial. This participation can occur directly or through aggregators of retail customers, aiming to promote market efficiency and consumer benefits while ensuring the stability and reliability of the electric network.

Contention

The discussions around SB1351 might involve contention regarding the balance of regulatory oversight and market freedom. Proponents of the bill argue that allowing for increased participation will foster competition and lower prices for consumers, while critics may express concerns over the adequacy of regulatory frameworks to prevent potential negative impacts on service reliability or consumer protection. The complexities of integrating demand-side resources into the existing market structure can prompt debate among stakeholders.