Honorable Jim Keffer, Chair, House Committee on Energy Resources
FROM:
John S. O'Brien, Director, Legislative Budget Board
IN RE:
SB598 by Van de Putte (Relating to a pilot revolving loan program for retrofitting public school buildings with photovoltaic solar panels and associated energy efficiency improvements.), As Engrossed
No significant fiscal implication to the State is anticipated.
This bill would amend the Government Code and provide for a pilot loan program to install photovoltaic solar panels on school buildings. The State Energy Conservation Office would establish this pilot program and allocate at least $4 million in funds from the LoanSTAR revolving loan program to provide funding to pay the costs for installation and associated energy efficiency improvements. It is assumed that any additional costs associated with implementation of the bill could be absorbed within existing resources.
Local Government Impact
No significant fiscal implications are anticipated for school districts. The bill would provide an opportunity for school districts to obtain loans to install solar panels and associated energy efficiency improvements. It is assumed that school districts would take into consideration any potential costs and savings in determining whether to participate in the program.