Document Details
F25-77638
Chairman Francis’ motion read as follows: At the January 2024 B&E, the Commission approved a Phase II Statewide Energy Efficiency Program to begin January 2026. Efforts are underway to develop a Statewide program, including the retention of Aptim as the Commission’s Administrator, and recently TetraTech as the Statewide EM&V Contractor. Over the last several months, discussions have been had regarding the various ways to achieve energy efficiency. Chairman Francis’ focus is to provide the most energy savings at the least reasonable costs, which in his opinion is achieved the greatest through the Commission’s public entity program. As such, Chairman Francis moved that the Commission cease working towards a Statewide Energy Efficiency Program, including providing written termination of its retention of Aptim and TetraTech. The Chair further directs Staff to publish a set of energy efficiency rules that pertain solely to a public entity program. These rules should require participation by the electric and group 1 gas utilities, shall allow industrials to opt out, and consider other options. Staff shall publish these rules within the next week to allow stakeholder feedback in time for a vote at the May B&E Session.After discussion, Chairman Francis withdrew his motion. On motion of Vice Chairman Skrmetta, seconded by Chairman Francis, with Commissioner Coussan concurring, and Commissioner Campbell and Commissioner Lewis opposing, the Commission voted to cease working towards a statewide energy efficiency program, including providing written termination of its retention of Aptim and Tera Tech, while maintaining the quick start programs through the end of calendar year 2025.The motion passed 3:2. Chairman Francis re-urged his directive, with Vice Chairman Skrmetta concurring, and Commissioner Campbell, Commissioner Lewis, and Commissioner Coussan opposing, the directive failed 2:3. Present for Questions/Comments:Logan Burke – The Alliance for Affordable EnergyBilly Anderson – Power Coalition of Equity and JusticeMark Kleehammer- General Counsel & Chief Regulatory Office, Cleco Power LLCLarry Hand – Vice President of Regulatory & Public Affairs, Entergy Louisiana, LLCJames Hiatt – SelfLana Francis – CEO, LaSalle General Hospital