Texas Senate Bill SB199

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Caption

Relating to the annual evaluation of water use by owners or operators of electric generating facilities.

Impact

The implications of SB199 are noteworthy, particularly within the context of Texas's ongoing challenges related to water resource management. By requiring electric generating facilities to disclose and evaluate their water use, the bill enhances transparency and facilitates better oversight of water consumption practices in the energy sector. This could potentially lead to improved conservation efforts and the adoption of more sustainable practices as facilities assess their own impacts on local water supplies.

Summary

SB199 mandates that owners or operators of electric generating facilities in Texas must conduct an annual evaluation of their water use. This evaluation is designed to assess various aspects of water consumption, including both consumptive and non-consumptive uses, as well as water reuse. Reports detailing these evaluations must be submitted to the relevant environmental authorities, specifically the commission and the board, by May 15 each year. This legislation aims to ensure accountability and promote efficient water management practices in an industry that is significant for both energy production and environmental sustainability.

Contention

While the bill supports environmental stewardship and responsible water use, there may be points of contention concerning the burden it places on facility operators. Some industry stakeholders may argue that the requirements could lead to increased operational costs and could affect competitiveness. Furthermore, the expiration clause set for September 1, 2018, indicates that the bill was originally framed as a temporary measure, which may raise questions regarding its long-term viability and the potential need for updates or extensions to continue fostering responsible water use in the industry.