SENATE BILL REPORT

EHB 1176

BYRepresentatives Nelson, May, Jacobsen, Crane and Miller; by request of Washington State Energy Office

Creating the energy efficiency account.

House Committe on Energy & Utilities

Senate Committee on Ways & Means

Senate Hearing Date(s):February 23, 1990; February 26, 1990

Majority Report:  Do pass.

      Signed by Senators McDonald, Chairman; Craswell, Vice Chairman; Amondson, Bailey, Bauer, Bluechel, Cantu, Fleming, Gaspard, Hayner, Johnson, Lee, Moore, Newhouse, Niemi, Owen, Saling, Smith, Warnke, Williams, Wojahn.

Senate Staff:David Sanford (786-7715)

                  February 27, 1990

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS, FEBRUARY 26, 1990

BACKGROUND:

Energy costs of state government owned or operated buildings amount to more than $50 million annually.

Although energy improvements are best implemented during initial capital construction, energy efficiencies need to be continually addressed.

The sum of $1.9 million was appropriated for use during the 1989-1991 biennium for the purpose of making energy conservation loans.  The loans are interest free and repayment schedules are based on savings generated by the improvements.  A maximum of six years is allowed for repayment.

SUMMARY:

The energy efficiency revolving loan fund account is created for capital improvements to existing state buildings.  The State Energy Office will administer the loan account which is subject to appropriation by the Legislature.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      available

Senate Committee - Testified: No one