The bill seeks to streamline the energy facility site evaluation process in Washington State by removing the governor's role in project approvals and empowering the Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council to make independent final decisions. Key changes include the council transitioning from providing a "recommendation" to issuing a "decision" on energy facility certification applications. The bill also repeals RCW 80.50.320, which pertains to the governor's involvement, and introduces new requirements for public hearings to be conducted as adjudicative proceedings, allowing for greater public participation. Additionally, the council will now be responsible for issuing permits and monitoring compliance, with specific timelines established for decision-making.

Further amendments focus on greenhouse gas emissions performance standards for new baseload electric generation facilities, mandating compliance for coal-fired facilities that emitted over 1,000,000 tons of greenhouse gases prior to 2008. The bill sets performance standards and deadlines for compliance, while also establishing a point source discharge permit program and carbon sequestration plans. It emphasizes public notification and comment opportunities, clarifies the appeal process for construction permits, and specifies that the burden of proof lies with applicants to demonstrate compliance. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance transparency, public involvement, and environmental accountability in the energy facility certification process.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 80.50.040, 80.50.045, 80.50.060, 80.50.071, 80.50.090, 80.50.100, 80.50.105, 80.50.130, 80.50.330, 80.70.020, 80.80.040, 90.48.262, 90.58.140, 80.50.320