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House OKs energy-efficiency bill for state buildings, assigns DFCM oversight
Summary
H.B. 80 directs the Division of Facilities Construction and Management to administer a State Energy Building Efficiency Program, requires agency energy contacts, allows energy-savings agreements, and exempts private structures on SITLA leases by friendly amendment; the bill passed unanimously.
The Utah House passed H.B. 80 to implement an energy-savings program for state-owned buildings and to assign administration to the Division of Facilities Construction and Management (DFCM).
Representative Fred Hunsaker said the bill implements part of the state's energy policy, covering construction and existing facilities and directing agencies to designate an energy-contact staff member. He said the state currently manages roughly 40 million square feet of agency space and spends more than $60 million annually on energy; small percentage improvements would yield significant savings.
Representative Michael Noel offered an amendment to exempt structures on School and Institutional Trust Lands Administration (SITLA) properties when they are privately controlled under lease or contract; the amendment was accepted as friendly. Representative Hunsaker said the bill creates an advisory group, clarifies state building board authority to adopt standards, and provides tools to fund projects using energy-savings agreements.
The House adopted the amendment and passed H.B. 80 on a roll-call vote of 71 yes and 0 no.
