SENATE BILL REPORT

HB 1479

BYRepresentatives Nelson, Barnes and Jacobsen; by request of Washington State Energy Office

Extending the authorization for utilities to lend money for energy conservation.

House Committe on Energy & Utilities

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 28, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators Benitz, Chairman; Bluechel, Vice Chairman; Madsen, Nelson, Stratton, Williams.

Senate Staff:Paul Parker (786-7455)

                  January 28, 1988

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES, JANUARY 28, 1988

BACKGROUND:

RCW 35.92.360 was enacted to implement the constitutional amendment (Art. VIII, sec. 10) authorizing municipal utilities to make loans to finance residential energy conservation.  It allows municipal utilities to assist owners of residential structures finance the acquisition and installation of cost-effective energy conservation measures. 

SUMMARY:

The limitation that loans may finance only residential conservation is deleted and new language is added to allow municipal utilities to make conservation loans for cost- effective equipment as well as for residential, commercial and industrial facilities. 

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Lawrence Gunn, Seattle City Light; Tom Mortimer, Washington PUD Association; Jake Fey, Tacoma City Light