Heat, light, communication and power systems; preference for use of biofuels

(1) The Oregon Department of Administrative Services may, as the department deems necessary, suitable or expedient, acquire, design, erect, complete, maintain and operate: (a) Steam heating systems, power systems, machines, engines and equipment, with necessary transmission poles and lines, pipes or conduits for the purpose of generating and furnishing steam heat, electric energy, current, light, heat and power for the public buildings and grounds. (b) Systems for the purpose of transmitting and receiving messages by radio, telephone, telegraph or other device or system in the transaction of business of the state or in which the state is interested. (2) To the maximum extent that is economically feasible, the department shall in lieu of diesel use biofuel, or direct-application electricity generated from biofuel, in all facilities or machinery the department acquires, designs, erects, completes, maintains or operates as stationary or backup generation for the systems described in subsection (1) of this section. (3) The department may do all things necessary for: (a) The delivery of steam heat, electrical current, energy, light, heat and power to the public buildings and grounds. (b) The transmitting and receiving of messages by radio, telephone, telegraph or other device or system in the transaction of business of the state or in which the state is interested.