Wisconsin Comprehensive Energy Legislation Dies on Earth Day
On January 6, the Clean Energy Jobs Act (AB 649) was introduced in the Wisconsin Legislature. The comprehensive energy legislation called for the Department of Commerce, Division of Safety and Buildings to review the state’s energy conservation codes for commercial and residential buildings and promulgate rules that conform to the energy standards of a “generally accepted code” (i.e. the IECC or one that provides equivalent energy savings). The Department is to publish these rules within 18 months of the publication of the generally accepted code. AB 649 also asserts the state’s goal of all new commercial and residential buildings consuming zero net energy by 2030.
On April 22, the state Senate finished its two-year session without voting on the bill after Democratic leaders balked at reports that the measure would drive up utility rates. On April 23, Gov. Jim Doyle stated that he will not call a special legislative session to address the bill.
More Information: AB 649: Home & Text (summary on p. 5 and 23, language on p.62) | Bill FAQs
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