In addition to the permanent funding increases included in this plan, the 2017–18 Support Budget plan seeks additional, one-time investments from the state. In the recent past, the state has proposed and provided one-time funding for a variety of energy efficiency and maintenance projects on CSU campuses.
Cap-and-Trade Program
The CSU plan seeks funds from the California Cap-and-Trade Program for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. As these state funds are purposed for implementing energy efficiency and greenhouse gas reduction projects, the CSU plan seeks $25 million from the Cap-and-Trade Program for 2017–18 to further these efforts. In addition, discussions with the CSU/UC Investor-Owned Utility Partnership Executive Committee to potentially leverage the utility rebate incentive program in partnership with the Cap-and-Trade funding would further incentivize energy conservation projects across the CSU system.
Deferred Maintenance Backlog
The CSU plan seeks an additional $50 million of one-time funding to further address the deferred maintenance backlog. Critical deficiencies identified throughout the 23 campuses will be addressed to enable campuses to continue essential operations, reduce the likelihood of catastrophic failures, and meet current code requirements to operate safe facilities. Major building systems that have exceeded the expected service life will be modernized to enable campuses to operate utilities more effectively, improve HVAC systems efficiency, reduce energy and lighting costs, reduce water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, and extend the useful life of existing facilities. The one-time funding will be spent on projects on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Together, funds from the Cap-and-Trade Program and funds for deferred maintenance will directly support statewide initiatives to attain energy and water conservation and greenhouse gas reductions.