FINAL BILL REPORT

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.

C 416 L 09

Synopsis as Enacted

Brief Description: Extending the loan repayment period for conservation projects funded by municipal utilities and public utility districts.

Sponsors: Representative Chase.

House Committee on Technology, Energy & Communications

Senate Committee on Environment, Water & Energy

Background:

Municipal Electric Utility Financing of Energy Conservation Projects.

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.

Public Utility District Financing of Water Conservation Project.

Public utility districts are authorized to assist the owners of structures in financing the acquisition and installation of fixtures, systems, and equipment for the conservation or more efficient use of water in the structures under a water conservation plan adopted by a district. Loans may not exceed 120 months in length.

Summary:

The 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. The period during which a customer of a public utility district must repay any loan for the conservation or more efficient use of water is extended from 120 months to 240 months.

Votes on Final Passage:

House

91

4

Senate

42

0

(Senate amended)

House

94

3

(House concurred)

Effective:

July 26, 2009