Newswires
Summary
House Bill 1390 would require state campus district energy systems to develop a decarbonization plan and provide privately owned district energy systems a chance to opt-in if they improve the efficiency of their energy generation and distribution.
Under this proposal, state owned district energy systems would increase building efficiency by upgrading to more efficient sources of energy generation. These upgrades would provide job opportunities in the energy sector and apply to the state capitol campus, universities, and correctional facilities. Historically, district energy systems have relied on a central heating plant using gas boilers and pumping steam to buildings. As of 2022, there is a significant maintenance backlog for these systems.
When asked about House Bill 1390, Rep. Ramel shared that “replacing central heating plants with more efficient and environmentally friendly sources of energy isn’t just the environmental decision. Ultimately, it will save campuses resources in the long term, build out public-private partnerships, and bring some of the state’s largest energy systems in line with building performance standards”. The legislation passed with a strong bipartisan vote of 92-4, and heads to the Senate.
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