The Issue
ASLA supports legislation that encourages energy efficiency and carbon sequestration through the planting of residential shade trees.
Background & Analysis
Legislation will soon be introduced by Congresswoman Matsui (CA) that would provide federal grant money to utility companies to help reduce energy costs for consumers and improve air quality for all.
This bill is patterned after a successful model implemented by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) in Rep. Matsui’s hometown congressional district. The SMUD program has been proven to lower energy bills, make local power utilities more cost-effective, and reduce air pollution.
The bill contains a requirement that all federal funds provided as part of a grant program be matched at least one-to-one with non-federal dollars.
This legislation will help homeowners lower their electric bills – and help utilities lower their peak load demand – by reducing residential energy demand caused by the need to run air conditioners at a high level.
Sponsor(s)
Representative Doris Matsui (CA).
History
The Energy Conservation Through Trees Act, H.R. 2095, was introduced by Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA) on June 2, 2011 and the 112th Congress expired before action was taken.
During the 111th
Congress, the entire text of the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act
was included in H.R. 2454,
the American Clean Energy and Security Act which passed the House of
Representatives on June 26, 2009, by a vote of 219-212. H.R. 2454
provides a multifaceted approach to reducing energy consumption and greenhouse
gases. In February 2010, the Senate Committee on Environment and Public
Works reported out S.1733, The
Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act and section 167 of the measure
includes the language of the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act,
including the ASLA recommended language. The 111th Congress
expired without either of these measures being signed into law.
Current Status
The TREES Act is expected to be introduced on Friday, April 26, 2013-Arbor Day!
Resources
• H.R. 2095
• Cong. Doris Matsui’s Press Release, 6/3/2011
• Rep. Matsui Energy Conservation Through Trees OP-ED
• Sacramento Municipal Utility Tree Planting Program.
Related ASLA Policies
