2015 Tennessee Code
Title 49 - Education
Chapter 9 - University of Tennessee
Part 14 - Research and Development at the University of Tennessee
§ 49-9-1410 - Feasibility study of statewide comprehensive energy policy.

(a) The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee is directed to perform a study on the economic feasibility of creating and utilizing a statewide comprehensive energy policy. The study shall examine the state's current and future energy supply and demand needs, existing energy policies, and emerging energy challenges and opportunities. The objectives of the study shall include, but not be limited to the following:

(1) Increasing the exploration and use of in-state or domestic energy resources;

(2) Promoting job growth, energy production, energy use, and energy conservation in the state;

(3) Ensuring reliable, low-cost environmentally responsible energy supply;

(4) Gaining competitive advantages for Tennessee businesses and consumers in light of rising energy costs; and

(5) Positioning the state as a leader in the United States and world energy markets.

(b) The study shall focus on incentives and policies that the state may utilize to promote and enhance the most cost efficient and effective statewide comprehensive energy policy. The study shall include legislative and executive policy recommendations.

(c) All appropriate state departments and agencies are encouraged to provide assistance for the study.

(d) State funds in the amount of forty thousand dollars ($40,000) shall be made available to support the feasibility study. The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy is authorized to establish public and private partnerships for the study. Any funds made available from private, county, municipal or federal appropriations shall be used to match state appropriations.

(e) The Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy shall report its preliminary findings to the energy task force of the house of representatives no later than October 15, 2014. A final report shall be provided to the energy task force no later than December 15, 2014.

(f) The Sparks Bureau of Business and Economic Research (SBBER) at the University of Memphis shall work in partnership with the Howard H. Baker Jr. Center for Public Policy at the University of Tennessee in the creation of the statewide comprehensive energy policy pursuant to subsection (a).