TITLE: Relating to a study by the Geo-Technology Research Institute on existing and potential programs to improve energy efficiency.

SUMMARY: Relating to a study by the Geo-Technology Research Institute on existing and potential programs to improve energy efficiency.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to a study by the Geo-Technology Research Institute on existing and potential programs to improve energy efficiency. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. STUDY. (a) In this section, "electric utility" includes: (1) an electric utility or retail electric provider, as defined by Section 31.002, Utilities Code; and (2) a municipally owned utility or electric cooperative, as defined by Section 11.003, Utilities Code. (b) The Geo-Technology Research Institute shall conduct a two-year study on existing and potential programs to improve energy efficiency in this state and submit a report of the institute's findings to the 86th Legislature. The report must include: (1) an estimated baseline for current building energy consumption in this state; (2) projections for future building energy consumption in this state; (3) analysis of methods used by other entities to evaluate energy efficiency programs sponsored or managed by electric utilities; (4) assessment of technical and economic feasibility of potential energy efficiency programs; and (5) analysis of energy efficiency goals established under Chapter 39, Utilities Code, including an evaluation of potential impacts of federal laws and policies on the goals, recommendations for revised goals, and projected consequences of the revised goals. (c) The Geo-Technology Research Institute shall submit to the lieutenant governor and the speaker of the house of representatives the report described by Subsection (b) of this section not later than January 1, 2020. SECTION 2. EXPIRATION. This Act expires February 1, 2020. SECTION 3. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Act takes effect September 1, 2017.