The bill aims to enhance the transmission capacity of electric utilities in Washington State by mandating that utilities with over 25,000 customers develop or update an integrated resource plan by September 1, 2008, and submit progress reports every two years. The updated plans must include assessments of customer demand forecasts, conservation resources, and methods for integrating renewable resources. A significant addition is the requirement for utilities operating transmission assets rated at 115,000 volts or greater to explore reconductoring their transmission lines with advanced conductors to improve efficiency. The bill also modifies multiyear rate plan requirements for gas and electrical companies, emphasizing environmental health, greenhouse gas emissions reductions, and equity, while ensuring that any rate increases are accompanied by low-income bill assistance.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for the performance and efficiency of electrical grid infrastructure, tasking the commission with developing performance measures and creating incentives for utilities to adopt advanced reconductoring measures. It aligns multiyear rate plan approvals with clean energy implementation plans and prohibits plans that would unduly burden gas companies or large combination utilities regarding natural gas service. The bill also establishes exemptions from certain environmental regulations for utility-related actions, allowing for the upgrading of transmission lines within existing rights-of-way and the widening of these rights-of-way on previously disturbed lands. The act is officially titled the "Washington incentives for reconductoring in existing developed transmission corridors act."

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 19.280.030, 80.86.020