State law helps businesses finance energy efficiency [Houston Chronicle]
Oct. 05–The oil and gas capital of the world is trying to become a leader in energy efficiency, with the help of a new state law that makes it easier for businesses to finance building upgrades.
The state Legislature passed the Property Assessed Clean Energy law in June, giving cities a way to help businesses finance energy-efficiency improvements.
The city of Houston, which has been at the forefront of energy efficiency retrofits for municipal buildings, says it already is plan- ning its strategies for matching interested building owners with the new financing.
“We want to lead by example,” said Laura Spanjian, sustainability director for the city. “We have a good base to start from because we are already doing energy efficiency. We use a lot of energy in Houston because of the hot summers, so anything people can do to reduce that bill is exciting to them.”
The details of the system are still evolving. Read more.