BILL ANALYSIS
Senate Research Center S.B. 1821
By: Fraser
AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT
A plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is a hybrid vehicle with batteries that can be recharged by connecting a plug to an electric power source. It shares the characteristics of both traditional hybrid electric vehicles having an electric motor an internal combustion engine, and of electric-battery vehicles also having a plug to connect to the electric grid.
As proposed, S.B. 1821 requires the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) to make an evaluation of the policies regarding PHEVs, including the potential for wide scale adoption of PHEVs and submit a report to the 82nd Legislature on its findings. The bill requires that the evaluation include a summary and evaluation of studies conducted by other organizations, as well as recommendations regarding legislation to support the adoption of PHEVs while maintaining the reliability of the grid. S.B. 1821 requires PUC to consult with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, transmission and distribution utilities, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, as appropriate, to conduct the study.
RULEMAKING AUTHORITY
Rulemaking authority is expressly granted to the Public Utility Commission of Texas in SECTION 1 (Section 39.917, Utilities Code) of this bill.
SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS
SECTION 1. Amends Subchapter Z, Chapter 39, Utilities Code, by adding Section 39.917, as follows:
Sec. 39.917. EVALUATION OF POLICIES REGARDING PLUG-IN HYBRID VEHICLES. (a) Defines "plug-in hybrid electric vehicle" (PHEV).
(b) Requires the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) to study the potential for wide-scale adoption of PHEVs and to submit a report to the 82nd Legislature regarding PUC's findings. Sets forth the required information to be included in the report.
(c) Authorizes PUC, based on the results of the study required by this section, to adopt rules as necessary to ensure that adequate electric infrastructure and policies are in place to support the adoption of PHEVs.
(d) Requires PUC to consult with the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, transmission and distribution utilities, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, as appropriate, to conduct the study.
SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2009.