HOUSE BILL REPORT

SB 5172

As Amended by the House

BYSenators Benitz, Williams and Nelson; by request of Washington State Energy Office

Extending utility lending of credit to equipment.

House Committe on Energy & Utilities

Majority Report:  Do pass. (7)

      Signed by Representatives Nelson, Cooper, Jacobsen, Jesernig, May, Miller and H. Myers.

House Staff:Fred Adair (786-7113)

AS PASSED HOUSE APRIL 10, 1989

BACKGROUND:

In 1979 a constitutional amendment allowing consumer-owned utilities to assist owners of residential structures in financing the acquisition and installation of cost-effective energy conservation measures was approved by the voters.  The provision was to be in effect for 10 years.  Last fall the voters removed the expiration and extended the scope of the constitutional amendment to include loans to commercial and industrial customers.

Properly located shade trees have proven effective in reducing air conditioner use and, in some cases, obviating the need for an air conditioner.  The resulting energy savings are significant.

SUMMARY:

Municipal utilities and public utility districts may loan funds for energy conservation improvements for both residential and nonresidential structures and equipment.  The financing is limited to existing structures and may not result in conversion from one energy source to another.

All energy distributors in the state may assist homeowners or community groups in planting shade trees which will cast summer shade on homes.

Fiscal Note:      Not Requested.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    None Presented.

House Committee - Testified Against:      None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:    None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None Presented.

VOTE ON FINAL PASSAGE:

      Yeas 91; Nays 1; Absent 4; Excused 2

Voting Nay: Representative Silver

Absent:     Representatives Appelwick, Dorn, Haugen and Rasmussen

Excused:    Representatives Gallagher and R. Meyers