Energy bill approved

(June 26, 2007) An energy bill that will take some steps toward ensuring that consumers throughout Connecticut gain access to affordable and reliable energy was approved this year.

Among other things, HB-7432:
• Establishes a new planning process to meet the state’s energy needs
• Encourages the use of new technologies to help conserve energy
• Adds new options to increase generation capacity in the state
• Will reduce costs over time through a variety of energy efficiency measures

A section vetoed by the governor prior to budget negotiations — $95 million for the state’s conservation and clean energy funds — was restored in the new state budget.

The measure also extends and expands sales tax exemptions for energy efficiency; requires state agencies to study the siting, planning and preparedness of power plants and transmission facilities, and how to ensure their reliability during peak periods; and expands funding for distributed generation (such as technologies including microturbines and fuel cells).

What’s more, the bill:
• Allows municipalities to create energy-improvement districts, to develop small power plants and conservation programs
• Establishes tax exemptions for fuel-efficient and hybrid vehicles
• Encourages the development of “advanced meters” — to help consumers control their energy use and costs

In addition, the bill sets the groundwork for the implementation of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) in Connecticut. The state Department of Environmental Protection will manage the auction of CO2 allowances through the regulatory process.

Developing a comprehensive long-term energy plan for the state, as this bill calls for, is essential to give Connecticut a competitive advantage in the region for energy cost and reliability. It will help Connecticut consumers become more efficient energy users and ensure that consumers have access to adequate, stable and affordable energy resources.

For more information, contact CBIA’s Bonnie Stewart at 860-244-1925 or stewartb@cbia.com.

CBIA Action Center

Comment on this story or issue to your state legislators!