JEFFERSON CITY—The Missouri Senate recently approved legislation filed by Sen. Gina Walsh, D-Bellefontaine Neighbors, which would allow low-income customers to take advantage of energy efficiency programs offered by electric companies.

Current law prohibits customers who have received a tax credit for low-income housing or historic preservation from receiving monetary incentives offered by electric companies for energy efficiency programs, including low-income housing construction projects. Senate Bill 275 modifies the eligibility so that low-income customers can benefit from the programs.

“We should constantly be looking for ways to encourage energy efficiency in Missouri. More efficient use of energy in our state results in less money spent by homeowners, schools, government agencies, and businesses on utility payments. That money can then be reinvested in our economy,” said Sen. Walsh. “It’s also an important step towards adopting renewable energy and reducing the size of our power system. This bill is good for consumers, electric companies, businesses and the environment.”

The bill is estimated to save low-income residents an average of $120 annually on utility payments.

The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy estimates that from 2006-2020, extended energy efficiency tax incentives could reduce consumer energy bills by $27 billion and prevent more than 51 million tons of carbon emissions.

Senate Bill 275 is now in the House, where it awaits referral to a legislative committee for consideration.

For more information on Sen. Walsh’s sponsored legislation, visit her official Missouri Senate website at www.senate.mo.gov/walsh.