Texas Senate Bill SB799

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/15/25

Caption

Relating to the installment of electric school buses and solar panels in Texas public schools.

Impact

The proposed legislation mandates the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to develop and distribute information regarding energy and water conservation strategies that can be implemented in state school facilities. It provides guidelines for retrofitting existing buildings with energy-saving devices and facilitates public school districts in applying for federal and state funding specifically aimed at acquiring electric school buses and installing solar energy systems.

Summary

SB799 aims to install electric school buses and solar panels in Texas public schools as a measure to enhance energy efficiency and disaster preparedness. The bill recognizes the pivotal role that public schools can play as energy storage facilities, to be utilized in case of emergencies. This initiative is part of a broader commitment from the Texas Legislature to prevent future disasters similar to Winter Storm Uri and ensure all Texas residents have reliable access to energy during crises.

Contention

The bill also underscores the urgent need for legislative support in addressing the inadequacies of the state's current energy infrastructure, highlighting the federal government's significant funding opportunities of nearly $5 billion for transitioning to electric school buses. Critics might argue that the reliance on school facilities for energy storage and distribution during emergencies could place additional burdens on educational institutions, potentially diverting their primary focus from education to energy management.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 447. State Energy Conservation Office
  • Section: 002
  • Section: 003