Second Natural Gas Utility Policy Briefing Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins July 15, 2025 Item 7 There Are Other Gas Utility Issues Besides High Rates 1. High Fuel Costs 2. Taxes & Fees 3. Low-Income Assistance 4. Greenwashing– Faulty Programs for Conservation & Renewable Natural Gas Three Reasons for High Fuel Prices 1. Rising Support Costs 2. Securitization 3. Gas Exports “Securitization” Winter Storm Uri Surcharge Legalized Piracy • $3.5 Billion Financed Over 16 Years • $1.11/MCF Surcharge • ≈ $38/Year/Residential Austin Customer • ≈ $608 Over 16-Year Payoff U.S. Liquefied Natural Gas Competes on World Market Taxes & Fees • ≈ 3% for State Fees • 5% for City of Austin Franchise Fee • No Cap on Amount Low-Income Assistance 2024 Austin Energy – $20.1 Million Austin Water – $17.4 Million Austin Watershed Protection – $1.2 Million Total City of Austin – $38.7 Million (1.5% of Gross) Texas Gas Service – $200,000 (For Entire Central-Gulf Region) Gas Companies are Greenwashing Clean Energy Efficiency of the Direct Use of Natural Gas From Atmos RMC June Presentation y c n e i c i f f E y g r e n E Direct Use of Natural Gas Source Energy Extraction, Processing, Transportation Generation Pipeline Loss Water Heater Efficiency 100 MMBTUs 93 MMBTUs Austin Energy Electric Mix No Losses X 93 MMBTUs 92 MMBTUs 53 MMBTUs Source Energy Extraction, Processing, Transportation Generation Line Loss Water Heater Efficiency 100 MMBTUs 90 MMBTUs 60 MMBTUs 57 MMBTUs 53 MMBTUs Austin Energy Electric Mix With Heat Pump Water Heater Source Energy Extraction, Processing, Transportation Generation Line Loss Heat Pump Water Heater 100 MMBTUs 90 MMBTUs 60 MMBTUs 57 MMBTUs 100 MMBTUs- 204 MMBTUs TGS gives rebates way in excess of the national average. Conservation Total Resource Benefit/Cost Test Total Lifetime Investment vs. Lifetime Monetary Savings = Gas Dryer With Moisture Sensor • Between $200 and $500 to save –– $2.35/Year (Gas-to-Gas change-out). • No other gas utilities give rebates for dryer stubs except One Gas. • Payback of 213 Years at Higher Rebate Level. Tankless Water Heaters • $4,150 to $5,050 for New Tankless Installation vs. $1,600- $1,850 for Tank Unit (2021 dollars). • Requires Regular Scale Cleaning • Claims of Increased Lifetime May Be Exaggerated • No Payback. In fact, it will cost $1,200 to $2,200 more over life. • Expensive • Scale Cleaning • Freeze Damage Efficient Furnaces Built for Northern Climates …
BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Resource Management Commission Recommendation No. 20250715-006 Recommendation to Create a Revolving Fund for Solar and Energy Efficiency Investment on City Properties WHEREAS, on August 8, 2019, the Austin City Council adopted a resolution declaring a climate emergency and calling “for an immediate emergency mobilization to restore a safe climate” and directing the city manager to take steps to accelerate local greenhouse gas emissions reductions; and WHEREAS, on September 30, 2021, the Austin City Council adopted the Austin Climate Equity Plan, which established a goal of reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions for the Austin Community by 2040; and WHEREAS, on December 12, 2024, the Austin City Council adopted the Austin Energy Resource, Generation and Climate Protection Plan to 2035, which reaffirmed energy efficiency, local solar, demand response and customer-sited batteries as priority strategies for meeting Austin’s energy needs; and WHEREAS, on May 22, 2025 the Austin City Council adopted resolution 20250522-052 directing the City Manager to conduct an analysis of City property, make recommendations for maximizing solar installation, and utilize the energy cost savings or revenue generated to fund projects with a beneficial environmental impact; and WHEREAS, of the 47 recommendations in Austin’s Climate Implementation Plan identifies installing solar on City facilities as the second most cost effective action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions; and WHEREAS, Austin’s Climate Implementation Plan identifies creating a climate revolving fund to invest in energy upgrades to city facilities, capture savings, and reinvest funds for additional investment as a foundational action; and WHEREAS, other jurisdictions in Texas and across the country have successfully established revolving funds, including the City of San Antonio, which has invested $42 million into its revolving fund for energy efficiency upgrades and solar installations at city properties, and the resulting savings are available for additional investments; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Resource Management Commission of the City of Austin recommends that the Austin City Council direct the City Manager to establish a revolving Sustainable City Facilities Fund of at least $15M to seed solar energy and battery installations on city buildings and other city properties and make energy and water efficiency upgrades at city facilities that meet minimum cost effectiveness thresholds to be calibrated during implementation. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Resource Management Commission recommends that the cost savings from such projects be continuously reinvested to fund additional projects identified in the Climate Implementation Plan that …
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, July 15, 2025 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, July 15, 2025 The Resource Management Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, at Austin Energy Headquarters 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair Charlotte Davis called the Resource Management Commission meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioner Charlotte Davis, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner Trey Farmer; Commissioner Martin Luecke; Commissioner Raphael Schwartz; Commissioner Alison Silverstein. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner GeNell Gary; Commissioner Danielle Zigon Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Dino Sasaridis; Commissioner Joseph Gerland PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: General- N/A APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Called Meeting on June 17, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the Resource Management Commission regular called meeting of June 17, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second on a 7-0 vote, with Commissioner Gary off the dais, Commissioners Gerland and Sasaridis absent, and one vacancy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of the Annual Internal Review of the Resource Management Commission for July 2024 through June 2025. The motion to recommend approval of the Annual Internal Review of the Resource Management Commission for July 2024 through June 2025 was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Commissioner Luecke’s second on a 7-0 vote, with Commissioner Gary off the dais, Commissioners Gerland and Sasaridis absent, and one vacancy. RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, July 15, 2025 STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff briefing regarding the 2025 Texas Gas Service rate case by Marija Norton, City Controller, Financial Services Department and Thomas Brocato, outside counsel, Lloyd Gosselink Rochelle & Townsend, P.C. The staff briefing was presented by Marija Norton, City Controller, Financial Services Department and Thomas Brocato, outside counsel, Lloyd Gosselink Rochelle & Townsend, P.C. 4. Staff briefing on Heat Pump Water Heater Rebates by Hammad Chaudhry, Director, Energy Efficiency Services, Austin Energy. The staff briefing was presented by Hammad Chaudhry, Director, Energy Efficiency Services. 5. Staff briefing on Home Energy Savings by Hammad Chaudhry, Director, Energy Efficiency Services, Austin Energy. The staff briefing was presented by Hammad Chaudhry, Director, Energy Efficiency Services. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 6. Discuss and action to recommend creating a revolving fund for solar and energy efficiency investment on City properties. (Sponsors: Davis and Luecke) The commission discussed creating a revolving fund for solar …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION June 17, 2025 6:00 p.m. Austin Energy Headquarters; 1st Floor; Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 Some members of the Resource Management Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Nici Huff, at Nici.Huff@austinenergy.com or 512-972-8621. Members: Charlotte Davis, Chair Paul Robbins, Vice Chair Trey Farmer GeNell Gary AGENDA Joseph Gerland Martin Luecke Dino Sasaridis Raphael Schwartz CALL MEETING TO ORDER Alison Silverstein Danielle Zigon Vacant PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Meeting on May 20, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff Briefing regarding the 2025 Atmos Energy rate case and discussion on policies for future rate case and franchise agreement negotiations by Marija Norton, City Controller, Financial Services Department and Freddy Herrera, outside counsel, Herrera Law & Associates, PLLC. 4. Staff Briefing regarding Austin Water’s quarterly report on Water Management Strategy Implementation by Kevin Kluge, Environmental Conservation Division Manager of Austin Water. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Presentation by Atmos Energy regarding Atmos Energy Mid-Tex Division Update by Chris Felan, VP of Rates and Regulatory Affairs and Kelly Biegler, VP of Public Affairs - Mid-Tex Division, Atmos Energy. 6. Presentation on ideas that can increase effectiveness of Austin's water conservation programs and strategies. (Sponsors: Robbins, Davis) FUTURE AGENDA ITEMS ADJOURNMENT The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Nici Huff at Austin Energy, at …
Memorandum To: Boards and Commissions From: Shay Ralls Roalson, Director, Austin Water Date: June 6, 2025 Subject: Board and Commission and Citizen Review of new Growth-related Capital Improvement Projects in Drinking Water Protection Zone In accordance with Austin Water’s (AW) Financial Policy No. 8, which is adopted by City Council annually as part of the annual budget adoption process, AW is providing a report of new growth-related capital improvement projects (CIP) located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ). The financial policy, which requires certain Board and Commission review of applicable projects, reads as follows: Capital improvement projects for new water and wastewater treatment plants, capital expansions, and growth-related projects that are located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ) will be identified and submitted, as part of the annual budget process, to the following Boards and Commissions: Water and Wastewater Commission, Resource Management Commission, and the Environmental Board. These Boards and Commissions will review growth-related DWPZ capital projects spending plans, obtain Board and Commission and citizen input, review consistency with Imagine Austin Comprehensive Plan, review effect on growth within the DWPZ, and make recommendations on project approval for inclusion in Austin Water's five-year capital spending plan. This summer, AW representatives will be distributing a brief report to the Commissions on the CIP projects located in the DWPZ related to the financial policy. Attachments: CIP Subprojects Summary CIP Subprojects Supplemental Information and Map The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Item 2 Austin Water Infrastructure Management Financial Policy No. 8 Drinking Water Protection Zone Projects Summary FY26-30 CIP Plan Development Each year, as part of the City of Austin Budget approval process, Austin Water submits a plan for the capital improvements program (CIP) spending for the upcoming five-year period. Austin Water’s FY26-30 CIP Plan includes projects located across the Austin metropolitan area, including the Drinking Water Protection Zone (DWPZ). In compliance with Austin Water’s Financial Policy No. 8, the capital improvement projects for new water and wastewater treatment plants, capital expansions, and growth related projects that are located in the DWPZ are presented below for consideration by City of Austin Boards and Commissions. These projects represent improvements required to meet Austin Water standards for operability and customer service. While additional capacity may be added in accordance with current design standards, the …
2025 Atmos Energy Rate Case Update & Gas Utility Policy Discussion Marija Norton| City Controller Alfred R. Herrera| Herrera Law & Associates, PLLC Item 3 2025 Atmos Energy Rate Case Timeline Nov 18, 2024: Rate case filed with Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC). Discovery begins. Dec 16, 2024: Rate case filed with Atmos Texas Municipalities (ATM). Dec 18, 2024: Errata to update filing, if necessary. Dec 23, 2024: Proposed effective date for RRC rate case. Jan 20, 2025: Proposed effective date for ATM rate case. Jan 21, 2025: Settlement conference. Jan 30, 2025: Proposed effective date for City of Austin only. City of Austin adopts denial resolution. Feb 3, 2025: Discovery ends on Atmos Mid-Tex direct case. Feb 13, 2025: Intervenor testimony due. Feb 19, 2025: Settlement conference. Feb 20, 2025: Staff testimony due. Feb 25, 2025: Discovery ends on intervenor & staff testimony. Feb 28, 2025: Rebuttal testimony due. Mar 7, 2025: Discovery ends on rebuttal testimony. Mar 10, 2025: Trial briefs & prehearing conference. Mar 11-12, 2025: Hearing on the merits. Mar 19, 2025: Initial briefs. Mar 26, 2025: Reply briefs. Apr 25, 2025: Proposal for Decision (PFD) issued. Apr 30, 2025: Settlement reached. May 1, 2025: Exceptions to PFD. May 7, 2025: Replies to exceptions. May 13, 2025: Commission conference. May 22, 2025: Initial statutory deadline – extended to June 18, 2025 Jun 17, 2025: Expected date for RRC consideration of settlement. 2 2025 Atmos Energy Rate Case Settlement Overview 3 2025 Atmos Energy Rate Case Settlement Overview Customer Class Current Atmos As-File Proposed Rates ATM Proposed Rates Settlement Rates ATM Cities: Residential Customer Charge Consumption Charge Commercial Customer Charge Consumption Charge Industrial & Transportation Customer Charge Consumption Charge - Tier 1 Consumption Charge - Tier 2 Consumption Charge - Tier 3 $ $ 47.91 0.14846 $ $ 47.91 0.37584 $ $ 20.00 0.98029 $ $ 25.00 0.78025 $ $ 136.68 0.09165 $ $ 136.68 0.09165 $ $ 145.00 0.16276 $ $ 140.00 0.26133 $ $ $ $ 2,492.04 0.3312 0.2425 0.0520 $ $ $ $ 2,492.04 0.3312 0.2425 0.0520 $ $ $ $ 2,462.00 0.7954 0.5824 0.1249 $ $ $ $ 2,100.00 1.0479 0.7672 0.1645 4 2025 Atmos Energy Rate Case Settlement Overview Cost of Capital Return on Equity Cost of Long Term Debt Capital Structure - Equity Capital Capital Structure - Debt Capital Rate of Return Current - Last Authorized 9.80% 5.20% 60.18% 39.82% 7.97% …
Water Management Strategy Implementation REPORT First Quarter 2025, January – March Resource Management Commission June 17, 2025 Item 4 Contents 2 First Quarter Summary Notes Regarding Data Water Conservation Updates Water Loss Reduction Updates Reclaimed Water and Onsite Reuse Updates Conservation Outreach Updates Water Use and GPCD Water Supply Project Updates First Quarter Summary The sustainability of Austin’s water supply is critical to the City’s future. This is the first quarterly report on implementation of water management strategies in the 2024 Water Conservation and Water Forward Plans. Austin Water has committed to this regular reporting to provide the latest information for stakeholders to understand our progress. In the first quarter of Calendar Year 2025, Austin Water initiated many bedrock tasks of water management strategies, including this new process of reporting. Notes Regarding Data Quarterly reporting of strategy implementation is a groundbreaking effort undertaken by Austin Water. Several important metrics require both explanation and development. Some metrics will be available in future quarterly reports. Quarterly Data – All quarterly data should be considered preliminary and draft, subject to adjustment and revision at the end of the year and included in the annual report. Historical Data – Where possible, 2024 quarterly metrics are included for reference with the 2025 first quarter metrics. Not all metrics have historical data. Yield of Strategies – Estimated volumetric yields from strategies are included in the Water Conservation Plan (2029 and 2034) and the Water Forward Plan (2030). Austin Water is working to identify the volumetric yields of strategies as they are being implemented and report them in future reporting. 4 Water Conservation Updates New single family residential irrigation inspections started in October 2024 3 Commercial/Institutional water audits conducted with pre-approved Bucks for Business applications Commercial water audit training: 2 staff members were certified and local utilities are working to bring the training to Central Texas WaterWise Landscape and Rainscape applications increased by 900% and 350% respectively between Q1 2024 and Q1 2025 5 Water Conservation Metrics Residential Rebate Programs Approved Rebates 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 6 Drought Survival Tools Irrigation Upgrades Other Residential Programs Rainwater Harvesting Rebates WaterWise Landscape WaterWise Rainscape Q1 2024 Q2 2024 Q3 2024 Q4 2024 Q1 2025 Water Conservation Metrics Commercial Rebate Programs Approved Rebates Approved Rebates 2.5 2 1.5 1 …
Energy Effeciency Services - Commercial and Multifamily Enrollment Pipeline 6/1/2025 Program Latest Workflow Enrollment(s) # Location Name Installation Address Council District Est. kW Savings Est. kWh Savings Est. $ Incentive Measures Planned Multifamily 3-Installation 1329500 CAMDEN-GAINES RANCH Commercial 3-Installation Multifamily 3-Installation 1337032 1323774 HEB 754 SOUTH LAMAR VILLAGE 3505 S LAMAR BLVD LEASE 4424 GAINES RANCH LOOP 2400 S CONGRESS AVE Multifamily 3-Installation 1302240 THE MICHAEL AT PRESIDIO 13535 LYNDHURST ST LEASE Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified Multifamily Income Qualified 3-Installation 1327092 AGAVE AT SOUTH CONGRESS 625 E STASSNEY LN A 4-Post Inspection 1329351 HILLSIDE ON CANNON 3-Installation 1328829 BRIDGE AT BALCONES 2302 E WILLIAM CANNON DR 1 12215 HUNTERS CHASE DR S12 8 3 5 6 3 2 6 122.0 168,642 $ 70,256 549.1 2,650,926 $ 82,295 152.5 343,826 $ 115,950 Building Information,Property Qualification, Solar Screen/Solar Film HVAC,Lighting New Construction Attic Insulation, ECAD Incentive, Lighting, Smart PPT Eligible Thermostat, HVAC Tune-Up 41.7 162,206 $ 119,520 Building Information,Property Information,QC - Qualification,HVAC Tune-Up,Unit Information 54.3 208,321 $ 138,852 Attic Insulation, ECAD Incentive, Lighting, Smart PPT Eligible Thermostat, HVAC Tune-Up 157.0 242,240 $ 158,534 Attic Insulation, ECAD Incentive, Lighting, Smart PPT Eligible Thermostat, HVAC Tune-Up 68.1 319,824 $ 178,520 Attic Insulation, ECAD Incentive, Lighting, Smart PPT Eligible Thermostat, HVAC Tune-Up Rebate Fact Sheet - Energy Efficiency Services May 2025 Rebate Program Enrollment Property Information Multifamily 1297546 Customer or Property THE BOULEVARD AT TOWN LAKE Property Address Year Built * Total Number of Rentable Units Building Total Square Feet 2600 LAKE AUSTIN BLVD 05 AUSTIN, TX 78703 1995 256 N/A Rebates and Estimated Annual Savings Measure ** Attic Insulation HVAC Tune-Up Plenum Redesign and Remediation Smart PPT Eligible Thermostat Water Saving Devices Est. Kilowatt (kW) Reduction Est. Kilowatt- hours (kWh) Reduction Est. $/kW 57.3 30.5 223.2 22.0 10.7 27,321 118,566 450,042 125,752 114,929 $1,317 $1,813 $378 $1,779 $413 Rebate per Tenant Unit $295 $216 $330 $153 $17 Total Rebate $75,429 $55,253 $84,420 $39,060 $4,439 Total *** 343.6 * Year built may not include major renovations ** Fact sheets include final inspection information, and some values may have changed since original proposal. *** Assumes 100% Occupancy $258,601 836,611 $1,010 $5,701 Date (Year) Measure Rebate Amount Energy Efficiency Rebates in Past 10-Years N/A Rebate Fact Sheet - Energy Efficiency Services May 2025 Rebate Program Enrollment Property Information Multifamily Income Qualified 1328775 Customer or Property WILDWOOD APARTMENTS Property Address Year Built * Total Number of …
Austin Water Conservation Potential Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins • July 17, 2025 Item 6 With Maximum Drought, Global Warming, Sedimentation, and increasing population, the Highland Lakes could be dry by 2040 Average temperatures have spike since 2009. Heat and drought influenced water conservation policy. On June 15, 2025, the Lakes Were Only 53% Full. Watering restrictions, building codes, efficiency mandates, education programs, and higher water costs have contributed to dramatic reductions in per capita water use. Some assume it can go no lower. New Programs and Strategies COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION RATES Other Texas Cities 12 to 122% Higher Than Normal Commercial Rates Austin 2% Discount Originally recommended in 2007 COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE REBATES In Austin, Residential landscape rebates are very expensive and rarely used. Commercial landscapes use 9 X as much water as Residential, and retrofits may be more cost effective – particularly coupled with high irrigation rates. COMMERCIAL INSPECTION FINES Landscapes since 2014 Car Washes since 2014 Cooling Towers since 2018 20% Non-Compliance – 68 Million Gallons/Year AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL CLOTHES WASHERS AND DISHWASHERS About 10,000 Commercial Clothes Washers and Dishwashers in Austin. Clothes Washers: as much as 69% savings Dishwashers: as much as 75% savings But almost no rebates between 2021 and 2024. BUCKS FOR BUSINESS COMMERCIAL REBATE PROGRAM Replacing toilets in volume Poor participation in recent years until new staff person and third-party vendor. 24 million gallons saved in 2024, 6 X the previous 3 years combined Recycling car wash water MANDATORY TOILET CHANGEOUT 140,000 old units left in 2012. Retrofits should be required. Originally recommended in 2007 MANDATORY SOIL DEPTH IN NEW SUBDIVISIONS Placing 6 inches of soil on disturbed ground enhances moisture retention (like a sponge) Originally recommended in 2007 OLD PIPE REPLACEMENT In 2023, 12.5% of Austin’s water leaked. Most was from old cast iron and polybutylene pipe. It has been getting worse since 2007. Replacing cast iron and PB would require $1.6 billion in overnight costs. Not cost effective unless viewed on a 100-year timeline. • Savings from water processing cost. • Savings avoiding new treatment plant capital and O&M costs. • Savings from new water purchases. Ductile Iron Stainless Steel RECLAIMED WATER Despite the number of reclaimed water customers growing by almost 4 times since 2011, the actual volume sold has remained the same. Only 6% reclaimed. But at full potential, it could supply 715,000 Austinites. Building a new reclaimed water …
Atmos Energy, Mid-Tex Division For Austin Resource Management Commission June 17, 2025 Item 5 Atmos Energy (Mid-Tex) Service Territory – Austin, TX I W E V R E V O I W E V R E V O Cities in the Atmos Texas Municipalities (ATM) Coalition Austin Fredericksburg Lampasas Balch Springs Gatesville Bandera Blooming Grove Burnet Cameron Cedar Park Clifton Commerce Goldthwaite Granbury Greenville Groesbeck Hamilton Heath Henrietta Leander Longview Marble Falls Mart Mexia Olney Pflugerville Point Copperas Cove Hickory Creek Princeton Corsicana Electra Hico Hillsboro Ranger Rice Riesel Rockdale Rogers Round Rock San Angelo Sanger Somerville Star Harbor Trinidad Whitney I W E V R E V O Austin, TX Service Territory Atmos Energy Mid-Tex Division BY THE NUMBERS 11,019 Customers 120 Miles of Pipeline 125 Employees $226,895 Charitable Giving I W E V R E V O Mid-Tex Division BY THE NUMBERS 1.8 Million Customers 32,827 Miles of Pipeline 1,978 Employees 550 $1.4 Billion FY24 Capital Investment $8.8 Million Communities Served Charitable Giving Y T E F A S Safety Drives Everything We Do Our vision is to be the safest provider of natural gas services, and we are doing our part to modernize the nation’s aging natural gas delivery network. Over the last 10 years, we have invested more than $10 billion to modernize our pipeline infrastructure and have committed to spending approximately $24 billion over the next five years. Y T E F A S Training for Safe Operations Atmos Energy field employees receive extensive in-person, virtual, and hands-on training and participate in our Pipeline Safety Management System that provides continuous feedback. 9,000 Hours spent on safety training across the enterprise in FY23. 2 Million+ Hours of training at the Charles K. Vaughan Center since its opening in 2010. Y T E F A S M E T S Y S Reducing Third-Party Pipeline Damage Safe digging starts with calling 811 to have underground utility- owned lines located and marked. It’s free. It keeps you safe. It’s the law. Call 811 Before You Dig • Natural gas safety is a partnership, so we want everyone to understand the importance of calling 811 before building a deck, planting a tree, installing a fence, or digging for any other project. • The most common cause of outside natural gas leaks is excavation that damages natural gas pipelines. APWA Uniform Color for Marking Underground Utility Lines Red: Electric Yellow: …
Austin Water Conservation Potential Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins • July 17, 2025 Item 6, V2 Stress on Highland Lakes Water Supply Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s and 1700s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for Drought and worst global warming scenario Sedimentation Met Demand 2023 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 2080 Water Supply Left/Unmet Demand t e e F - e r c A 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 0 -200,000 -400,000 -600,000 With Maximum Drought, Global Warming, Sedimentation, and increasing population, the Highland Lakes could be dry by 2040 Average temperatures have spike since 2009. Heat and drought influenced water conservation policy. On June 15, 2025, the Lakes Were Only 53% Full. Watering restrictions, building codes, efficiency mandates, rebates, education programs, and higher water costs have contributed to dramatic reductions in per capita water use. Some assume it can go no lower. New Programs and Strategies COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION RATES Other Texas Cities 12 to 122% Higher Than Normal Commercial Rates Austin 2% Discount Originally recommended in 2007 COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE REBATES In Austin, Residential landscape rebates are very expensive and rarely used. Commercial landscapes use 9 X as much water as Residential, so retrofits may be more cost effective – particularly coupled with high irrigation rates. COMMERCIAL INSPECTION FINES Landscapes since 2014 Car Washes since 2014 Cooling Towers since 2018 20% Non-Compliance – 68 Million Gallons/Year AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL CLOTHES WASHERS AND DISHWASHERS About 10,000 Commercial Clothes Washers and Dishwashers in Austin. Clothes Washers: as much as 69% savings. Dishwashers: as much as 75% savings. But almost no rebates between 2021 and 2024. BUCKS FOR BUSINESS COMMERCIAL REBATE PROGRAM Replacing toilets in volume Poor participation in recent years until new staff person and third-party vendor. 24 million gallons saved in 2024, 6 X the previous 3 years combined. Recycling car wash water MANDATORY TOILET CHANGEOUT 140,000 old units left in 2012. Retrofits should be required. Originally recommended in 2007 MANDATORY SOIL DEPTH IN NEW SUBDIVISIONS Placing 6 inches of soil on disturbed ground enhances moisture retention (like a sponge). Originally recommended in 2007 OLD PIPE REPLACEMENT In 2023, 12.5% of Austin’s water leaked. Most was from old cast iron and polybutylene pipe. It has been getting worse since 2007. Replacing cast iron and polybutylene would require $1.6 billion in overnight costs. But only $11 million/year is typically spent to replace ≈6 …
Austin Water Conservation Potential Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins • July 17, 2025 Item 6, V3 Stress on Highland Lakes Water Supply Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s and 1700s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for Drought and worst global warming scenario Sedimentation Met Demand 2023 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 2080 Water Supply Left/Unmet Demand t e e F - e r c A 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 0 -200,000 -400,000 -600,000 With Maximum Drought, Global Warming, Sedimentation, and increasing population, the Highland Lakes could be dry by 2040 Average temperatures have spike since 2009. Heat and drought influenced water conservation policy. On June 15, 2025, the Lakes Were Only 53% Full. Watering restrictions, building codes, efficiency mandates, rebates, education programs, and higher water costs have contributed to dramatic reductions in per capita water use. Some assume it can go no lower. New Programs and Strategies COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION RATES Other Texas Cities 12 to 122% Higher Than Normal Commercial Rates Austin 2% Discount Originally recommended in 2007 COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE REBATES In Austin, Residential landscape rebates are very expensive and rarely used. Commercial landscapes use 9 X as much water as Residential, so retrofits may be more cost effective – particularly coupled with high irrigation rates. COMMERCIAL INSPECTION FINES Landscapes since 2014 Car Washes since 2014 Cooling Towers since 2018 20% Non-Compliance – 68 Million Gallons/Year AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL CLOTHES WASHERS AND DISHWASHERS About 10,000 Commercial Clothes Washers and Dishwashers in Austin. Clothes Washers: as much as 69% savings. Dishwashers: as much as 75% savings. But almost no rebates between 2021 and 2024. BUCKS FOR BUSINESS COMMERCIAL REBATE PROGRAM Replacing toilets in volume Poor participation in recent years until new staff person and third-party vendor. 24 million gallons saved in 2024, 6 X the previous 3 years combined. Recycling car wash water MANDATORY TOILET CHANGEOUT 140,000 old units left in 2012. Retrofits should be required. Originally recommended in 2007 MANDATORY SOIL DEPTH IN NEW SUBDIVISIONS Placing 6 inches of soil on disturbed ground enhances moisture retention (like a sponge). Originally recommended in 2007 OLD PIPE REPLACEMENT In 2023, 12.5% of Austin’s water leaked. Most was from old cast iron and polybutylene pipe. It has been getting worse since 2007. Replacing cast iron and polybutylene would require $1.6 billion in overnight costs. But only $11 million/year is typically spent to replace ≈6 …
Austin Water Conservation Potential Resource Management Commission Paul Robbins • July 17, 2025 Stress on Highland Lakes Water Supply Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for 1950s and 1700s Drought Lake Levels Adjusted for Drought and worst global warming scenario Sedimentation Met Demand 2023 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 2080 Water Supply Left/Unmet Demand t e e F - e r c A 1,400,000 1,200,000 1,000,000 800,000 600,000 400,000 200,000 0 -200,000 -400,000 -600,000 With Maximum Drought, Global Warming, Sedimentation, and increasing population, the Highland Lakes could be dry by 2040 Average temperatures have spike since 2009. Heat and drought influenced water conservation policy. On June 15, 2025, the Lakes Were Only 53% Full. Watering restrictions, building codes, efficiency mandates, rebates, education programs, and higher water costs have contributed to dramatic reductions in per capita water use. Some assume it can go no lower. New Programs and Strategies COMMERCIAL IRRIGATION RATES Other Texas Cities 12 to 122% Higher Than Normal Commercial Rates Austin 2% Discount Originally recommended in 2007 COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPE REBATES In Austin, Residential landscape rebates are very expensive and rarely used. Commercial landscapes use 9 X as much water as Residential, so retrofits may be more cost effective – particularly coupled with high irrigation rates. COMMERCIAL INSPECTION FINES Landscapes since 2014 Car Washes since 2014 Cooling Towers since 2018 20% Non-Compliance – 68 Million Gallons/Year AGGRESSIVE REBATE PROGRAM FOR COMMERCIAL CLOTHES WASHERS AND DISHWASHERS About 10,000 Commercial Clothes Washers and Dishwashers in Austin. Clothes Washers: as much as 69% savings. Dishwashers: as much as 75% savings. But almost no rebates between 2021 and 2024. BUCKS FOR BUSINESS COMMERCIAL REBATE PROGRAM Replacing toilets in volume Poor participation in recent years until new staff person and third-party vendor. 24 million gallons saved in 2024, 6 X the previous 3 years combined. Recycling car wash water MANDATORY TOILET CHANGEOUT 140,000 old units left in 2012. Retrofits should be required. Originally recommended in 2007 MANDATORY SOIL DEPTH IN NEW SUBDIVISIONS Placing 6 inches of soil on disturbed ground enhances moisture retention (like a sponge). Originally recommended in 2007 OLD PIPE REPLACEMENT In 2023, 12.5% of Austin’s water leaked. Most was from old cast iron and polybutylene pipe. It has been getting worse since 2007. Replacing cast iron and polybutylene would require $1.6 billion in overnight costs. But only $11 million/year is typically spent to replace ≈6 miles of pipe. …
RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 17, 2025 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION REGULAR CALLED MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 17, 2025 The Resource Management Commission convened in a Regular Called meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at Austin Energy Headquarters 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723. Chair Charlotte Davis called the Resource Management Commission meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance: Commissioner Charlotte Davis, Chair; Commissioner Paul Robbins, Vice Chair; Commissioner GeNell Gary; Commissioner Martin Luecke; Commissioner Raphael Schwartz; Commissioner Alison Silverstein. Board Members/Commissioners in Attendance Remotely: Commissioner Joseph Gerland PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: General- N/A APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Regular Called Meeting on May 20, 2025. The motion approving the minutes of the Resource Management Commission regular called meeting of May 20, 2025, was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Commissioner Gary’s second on a 7-0 vote, with Commissioners Farmer, Sasaridis, Zigon absent and one vacancy. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval of the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone for approval to include in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8. The motion to recommend approval authorizing the Austin Water Capital Improvement Projects located in the Drinking Water Protection Zone included in the 5-year Capital spending plan as required by Financial Policy #8 was approved on Commissioner Silverstein’s motion, Vice Chair Robbins second on an 7-0 vote, Commissioners Farmer, Sasaridis, Zigon absent and one vacancy. STAFF BRIEFINGS 3. Staff Briefing regarding the 2025 Atmos Energy rate case and discussion on policies for future rate case and franchise agreement negotiations by Marija Norton, City Controller, RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES Tuesday, June 17, 2025 Financial Services Department and Freddy Herrera, outside counsel, Herrera Law & Associates, PLLC. The staff briefing was presented by Marija Norton, City Controller, Financial Services Department and Freddy Herrera, outside counsel, Herrera Law & Associates, PLLC. 4. Staff Briefing regarding Austin Water’s quarterly report on Water Management Strategy Implementation by Kevin Kluge, Environmental Conservation Division Manager of Austin Water. The staff briefing was presented by Kevin Kluge, Environmental Conservation Division Manager of Austin Water. DISCUSSION ITEMS 5. Presentation by Atmos Energy regarding Atmos Energy Mid-Tex Division Update by Chris Felan, VP of Rates and Regulatory Affairs and Kelly Biegler, VP of Public Affairs - Mid-Tex Division, Atmos Energy. The presentation was presented by Chris Felan, VP of …
REGULAR MEETING OF THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT COMMISSION May 20, 2025 6:00 p.m. Austin Energy Headquarters; 1st Floor; Shudde Fath Conference Room 4815 Mueller Blvd, Austin, Texas 78723 Some members of the Resource Management Commission maybe participating by videoconference. Public comment will be allowed in-person or remotely by telephone. Speakers may only register to speak on an item once either in-person or remotely and will be allowed up to three minutes to provide their comments. Registration no later than noon the day before the meeting is required for remote participation. To register contact Natasha Goodwin, at Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com or 512-322-6505. Members: Charlotte Davis, Chair Paul Robbins, Vice Chair Trey Farmer GeNell Gary AGENDA Joseph Gerland Martin Luecke Dino Sasaridis Raphael Schwartz CALL MEETING TO ORDER Alison Silverstein Danielle Zigon Vacant PUBLIC COMMUNICATION: GENERAL The first 5 speakers signed up prior to the meeting being called to order will each be allowed a three-minute allotment to address their concerns regarding items not posted on the agenda. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. Approve the minutes of the Resource Management Commission Meeting on April 15, 2025. DISCUSSION AND ACTION ITEMS 2. Recommend approval authorizing an amendment to a contract for continuation of the Better Building Energy Efficiency Lending Program for Austin Energy with Velocity Credit Union, to increase the amount by $5,000,000 and to extend the term by five years for a revised total contract amount not to exceed $14,400,000. Funding: $600,000 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Energy. 3. Recommend approval authorizing a contract for Strategic Partnership of Utilities and Retailers program administration for Austin Energy with CLEAResult Consulting, Inc., for an initial term of two years with up to three one-year extension options in an amount not to exceed $11,000,000. Funding: $1,250,000 is available in Operating Budget of Austin Energy. 4. Recommend approval of a resolution authorizing amendments to Austin Water’s Fiscal Year 2024-2025 GoPurple pilot incentive program for alternative onsite water reuse systems and reclaimed water connections for new commercial, mixed use and multi- The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the American with Disabilities Act. Reasonable modifications and equal access to communications will be provided upon request. Meeting locations are planned with wheelchair access. If requiring Sign Language Interpreters or alternative formats, please give notice at least 2 days (48 hours) before the meeting date. Please call Natasha Goodwin at Austin Energy, at (512) 322-6505 or email Natasha.Goodwin@austinenergy.com …
Posting Language ..Title Authorize an amendment to a contract for continuation of the Better Building Energy Efficiency Lending Program for Austin Energy with Velocity Credit Union, to increase the amount by $5,000,000 and to extend the term by five years for a revised total contract amount not to exceed $14,400,000. Funding: $600,000 is available in the Operating Budget of Austin Energy. ..Body Lead Department Financial Services Department. Client Department(s) Austin Energy. Fiscal Note Funding in the amount of $600,000 is available in the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Operating Budget of Austin Energy. Funding for the remaining contract term is contingent upon available funding in future budgets. Purchasing Language: Contract Amendment. MBE/WBE: This contract will be awarded in compliance with Chapter 2-9C of the City Code (Minority-Owned and Women-Owned Business Enterprise Procurement Program). No subcontracting opportunities were identified; therefore, no goals were established for this contract. Prior Council Action: April 7, 2011 - Council approved a contract for the energy efficiency lending program with Velocity Credit Union. For More Information: Direct questions regarding this Recommendation for Council Action to the Financial Services Department – Central Procurement at FSDCentralProcurementRCAs@austintexas.gov or 512-974-2500. Council Committee, Boards and Commission Action: May 12, 2025 - To be reviewed by the Electric Utility Commission May 20, 2025 - To be reviewed by the Resource Management Commission. Additional Backup Information: This contract amendment will support Austin Energy’s (AE) Better Building Energy Efficient Lending Program. Currently, through this program, AE offers loans with low interest rates and a flexible credit score threshold for customers to invest in energy efficiency upgrades. The program is especially beneficial for low- to-moderate income customers and small businesses, making energy efficiency improvements more affordable. Additionally, the program supports several AE initiatives, including the Home Energy Savings Program, the Weatherization Assistance Program, and Small Business Program. By reducing upfront cost barriers, it helps building owners to complete comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades through AE’s other programs. Qualifying low-to-moderate income customers can take advantage of zero percent financing for a new air conditioning system when participating in the Weatherization Assistance Program. The program was created through the United States Department of Energy’s Better Building Program, and supports AE’s goal of achieving and increasing energy efficiency savings and renewable energy use. City funds through the Customer Benefits Charge included on customers’ utility bill are used to reduce loan interest rates to promote participation and accessibility of the programs. The …
