Solar & Battery Regulation & Incentive Programs

Mandatory Utility Green Power Option

Program Overview


Category:
Regulatory Policy
Program Type:
Mandatory Utility Green Power Option
Implementing Sector:
State
State:
Washington
Eligible Storage Technologies:
Geothermal Electric, Solar Thermal Electric, Solar Photovoltaics, Wind (All), Biomass, Hydroelectric, Landfill Gas, Tidal, Wave, Wind (Small), Anaerobic Digestion
Website:
http://www.utc.wa.gov/regulatedIndustries/utilities/energy/Pages/greenPowerProgramsInWA.aspx
Applicable Sectors:
Investor-Owned Utility, Cooperative Utilities
Last Updated:
12/09/2015

Summary

In May 2001, Washington enacted legislation (EHB 2247) that requires all electric utilities serving more than 25,000 customers to offer customers the option of purchasing renewable energy. Eligible renewables include wind, solar, geothermal, landfill gas, wave or tidal action, wastewater treatment gas, certain biomass resources, and "qualified hydropower" that is fish-friendly.

Beginning January 1, 2002, each electric utility must inform its customers on a quarterly basis of the voluntary option to purchase green power. The details of each utility's program must be approved by the state, and annual reports must be submitted from October 1, 2002, to October 1, 2012. A report summarizing the utilities' reports will be provided each year to the legislature.

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) oversees programs developed by the state's investor-owned utilities. For information on a green power program offered by a specific utility, contact the utility directly.


Authorities

NameEnacted DateEffective DateExpired Date
RCW 19.29A.090