Substitute Bill No. 7091 amends section 16-245m of the general statutes to strengthen the oversight and auditing of utility programs managed by the Energy Conservation Management Board (ECMB). The bill repeals existing language regarding the approval process for Conservation and Load Management Plans and introduces new requirements for annual audits by the Auditors of Public Accounts. It mandates that these plans include a detailed budget for energy efficiency initiatives and sets specific goals, such as weatherizing 80% of the state's residential units by 2030 and achieving a reduction in energy consumption of 1.6 million MMBtu annually. Additionally, a joint committee between the ECMB and the Connecticut Green Bank is established to coordinate funding and ensure program cost-effectiveness.

The bill also enhances the evaluation process for energy conservation programs by requiring the use of statistically valid monitoring techniques and independent consultants for oversight. It restricts communication between board members and evaluation contractors to maintain evaluation integrity and mandates that evaluation reports be submitted to both the board and the Auditors of Public Accounts. Furthermore, it emphasizes support for low-income individuals and energy-efficient initiatives, establishes a rebuttable presumption of technical qualification for certified contractors, and limits administrative costs to five percent of the total plan cost. Starting October 1, 2025, the Auditors of Public Accounts will conduct annual audits of the ECMB's programs, focusing on savings and cost-effectiveness, thereby enhancing accountability and effectiveness in energy conservation efforts.