Washington Governor Gary Locke recently signed a trio of energy bills (HB 1859, EHB 2247, SB6107) designed to ensure that Washington has affordable, reliable, and renewable sources of energy.
HB 1859 extends tax exemptions for small solar, wind, and fuel cell projects; SB 6107 extends for ten years the current laws regarding geothermal energy development in Washington.
EHB 2247 will:
- Require energy audits to reduce power consumption in state facilities;
- Direct utilities to provide alternative energy choices, such as wind and solar, for customers who request it;
- Grant tax incentives to the aluminum and other industries highly dependent on the Bonneville Power Administration to encourage construction of new natural gas-fired facilities so that they may generate their own power;
- Allow for tax exemptions to purchase pollution control equipment for gas-fired power plants;
- Streamline the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council regulatory process for siting and permitting new power plants; and
- Grant a tax credit to energy suppliers in exchange for reducing rates to customers who qualify for low-income assistance.
For more information, contact the Washington Governor’s office.
