Senate committee substitute makes the following changes to 2nd edition. Deletes the provisions of the 2nd edition and replaces it with AN ACT TO: (1) CREATE AN INTERAGENCY TASK FORCE TO STUDY THE FEASIBILITY AND DESIRABILITY OF ADVANCING THE USE OF ALTERNATIVE FUELS BY STATE AGENCIES AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF ASSOCIATED FUELING INFRASTRUCTURE; (2) ESTABLISH CRITERIA FOR THE OPERATION OF ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS LOCATED AT STATE-OWNED REST STOPS ALONG THE HIGHWAYS AND; (3) AMEND THE ENERGY JOBS ACT OF 2011 IF THE ENERGY JOBS ACT OF 2011 BECOMES LAW.
States the General Assembly’s intent to reduce the cost of fuel used by state agencies and transition to cleaner, more-cost effective state-produced fuel resources. Directs the State Energy Office in the Department of Commerce, in consultation with the Department of Administration, Department of Public Instruction, Department of Transportation, and other agencies, to create a task force to study advancing the use of alternative fuels by state agencies. Requires a report to the Joint Legislative Commission on Energy Policy by December 1, 2012.
Authorizes the DOT to operate electric vehicle charging stations at state-owned rest stops, provided two, detailed conditions are met. Sets out reporting requirements.
Makes several changes to the Energy Jobs Act of 2011 (SB 709) if the Act becomes law, as follows. Makes clarifying changes to the provision requiring the development of a regional energy strategy (was, regional energy compact) for the exploration and development of offshore energy resources, and requires final recommendations by December 31, 2012. Repeals provision requiring DENR’s report on onshore shale gas resources. Amends GS 113B-3 to change the deadline for appointments to the Energy Jobs Council to September 1, 2012 (rather than October 1, 2011). Amends Council membership qualifications. Makes additional clarifying changes.