Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Technology, Energy & Communications Committee |
HB 1184
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Extending the loan repayment period for municipally funded conservation projects.
Sponsors: Representative Chase.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 1/28/09
Staff: Jason Callahan (786-7117)
Background:
Municipalities that generate, sell, or distribute electricity are authorized, within limits, to assist homeowners with the purchase and installation of materials that increase energy efficiency. Municipal assistance must be limited to conservation purposes in existing structures.
Municipalities may provide an inspection of a house or facility to identify potential conservation projects, provide a list of businesses capable to selling and installing materials needed for a conservation project, arrange to have conservation materials installed by a private contractor, and arrange or provide financing for the purchase and installation of conservation materials.
If a municipality provides financing for the purchase and installation of conservation materials for one of its utility customers, the municipality must be reimbursed by incremental additions to the utility bill. All loans provided by a municipality must be repaid in this manner within 120 months.
Summary of Bill:
The time period during which a customer of a municipal utility must repay any loan for increasing energy efficiency is increased from 120 months to 240 months.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on January 22, 2009.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.