Pitched Plans and Ditched Efforts in an Infrastructure Race

摘要

The U.S. is the second-largest producer and consumer of energy. Supported by strong fossil fuel, nuclear energy and renewable energy sources, this construction segment has the potential for significant growth in terms of renovations and expansions. Recent natural disasters highlighted shortfalls in the system, legislation on federal and state levels dictated changes, and communities rallied for improvements. The February winter storms in Texas put a spotlight on power infrastructure failures and the pace in which some states need to address shortcomings. The Texas legislation's attempt came in the form of SB 3, which was sent to Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on June 1. If signed, the bill would require weatherization of electrical generation providers' infrastructures and operations. The requirements for natural-gas-fueled sites are not as strong and only cover critical facilities. If upgrades are not made, the fines for each offense could reach up to $1 million. An emergency alert system was also included in the bill. Some feel that the legislation does not go far enough, leaving out requirements for homes to be weather-ized and removing backup generator grant options for health care facilities. Funding also is not included in the bill.