25325.
(a) The commission shall conduct research on generating electricity using piezoelectric technology under roadways and railways. The commission shall award the research projects under this section through competitive solicitations, interagency agreements, or agreements with other governmental entities.(b) (1) If the commission finds, based on initial research, that the piezoelectric-based energy-harvesting technology has the potential to generate electricity with the performance, reliability, and cost projections that are comparable to existing or emerging renewable energy sources, then the commission shall establish a pilot project or projects to employ piezoelectric-based
energy-harvesting technology. The commission shall collaborate with the Department of Transportation if the pilot project is conducted in a facility that is part of the state highway or rail system under the jurisdiction of the Department of Transportation.
(2) The Department of Transportation shall conduct research on the piezoelectric-based energy-harvesting technology according to its usual research protocol if the pilot project established pursuant to paragraph (1) is conducted in a facility that is part of the state highway or rail system under the jurisdiction of the Department of Transportation.
(c) The commission may expend the moneys in the Renewable Resource Trust Fund, upon appropriation by the Legislature, to implement this section.
(d) As a part of the integrated energy policy report that is adopted in
2013, the commission shall report the findings of the research performed pursuant to subdivision (a).
(e) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2015, and as of that date is repealed, unless a later enacted statute, that is enacted before January 1, 2015, deletes or extends that date.