MS HB968

Extends the repeal date of Section 31-7-14, Mississippi Code of 1972, from July 1, 2025 to July 1, 2028, continuing authorization for public entities to enter energy efficiency service contracts.

Allows public school districts, junior colleges, institutions of higher learning, public hospitals, state agencies, and governmental authorities to contract for energy efficiency equipment, services, and improvements through energy services contracts, energy performance contracts, and shared-savings contracts.

Requires energy services providers to be prequalified by the Mississippi Development Authority's Energy Division based on documented experience, technical capabilities, financial stability, and ability to guarantee savings.

Permits lease-purchase agreements for energy efficiency equipment with maximum terms of 20 years and interest rates not exceeding the maximum rate for general obligation indebtedness under Section 75-17-101.

Mandates entities entering performance or shared-savings contracts to report energy usage and consumption data to the Energy Division semi-annually by March 1 and September 1, with reporting costs paid by energy services providers.