So naturally, after 2 years in the making, one has to wonder what’s in it. The Courant has handily provided a list of highlights:
PLANNING
Requires electric utilities to do an annual assessment of the state’s electric system, including whether Connecticut has enough power plants and how to stabilize growing demand on peak days.
EFFICIENCY
Rebates on the purchase of efficient air conditioners, new efficiency standards for a range of products, and an allowance for local governments to provide a property tax rebate for hybrid cars and vehicles that get at least 40 mpg.
Restores $95 million in funding to state conservation and clean energy funds.
Creates a statewide energy efficiency marketing campaign as well as a campaign to promote the use of compact fluorescent bulbs.
NEW GENERATION
Sets up a process under which utilities and private generators can propose new “peaking” power plants to operate at times of high demand.
Includes future state-run processes to fund new power plant construction.
RETAIL MARKET
Requires new voluntary real-time electric rates.
Utilities must provide information on alternative electric suppliers - if they exist - when consumers call to start service, ask about rates or seek information on efficiency programs
Requires utilities upon the request of customers to install advanced meters that track changing electric prices. Funded through rates.
New ratepayer-funded contracts known as “partnerships” with companies that can install technologies to reduce electricity use, especially at times of peak demand
Source: Legislative Staff and Office of Legislative Research
And over in the Senate, after a long debate, the bill that allows the children of illegal immigrants to pay in-state tutition costs at Connecticut public colleges and universities passed the state Senate Friday afternoon.
