Tyler Olson Introduces Energy City Legislation

Tyler Olson (D-Cedar Rapids) has introduced a bill (House File 773) that would...

...establish an energy city designation program, with the objective of encouraging cities to develop and implement innovative energy efficiency programs.

This bill is scheduled to be debated in the Iowa House on Tuesday, March 20th.

Here is the explanation on the bill...

This bill provides for the establishment by the department of natural resources of an energy city designation. The objective of the designation shall be to encourage cities to develop and implement innovative energy efficiency programs. To qualify for designation as an energy city, the bill provides that a city shall submit an application including the submission of community=based plans for energy reduction projects, energy efficient building construction and rehabilitation, and alternative or renewable energy production; efforts to secure local funding for those plans; involvement of local schools and community organizations; any existing or proposed ordinances encouraging energy efficiency and conservation, recycling efforts, and energy efficient building code provisions and enforcement; and the organization of an energy day observance and proclamation with a commemorating event and awards ceremony for leading energy efficient community businesses, groups, schools, or individuals.

The bill provides that the department shall establish designation criteria by rule, and shall identify and publicize state grant and loan programs relating to energy efficiency. Additionally, the department is directed to develop a procedure for coordinating with other state agencies preferences given in the awarding of grants or making of loans to energy city designated applicants.

This seems like a cheap and easy way to promote energy efficieny in our communties. It seems pretty similar to the Main Street Iowa program. It would be a great step in helping Iowa become the energy capital of world.