The bill amends the Washington Clean Energy Transformation Act, specifically RCW 19.405.020 and RCW 19.405.030, to clarify definitions and requirements related to wholesale power purchases by electric utilities. Notably, it redefines "coal-fired resource" to exclude certain short-term wholesale power purchases, extending the allowable contract duration from one month to three months, or six months for system sales necessary for seasonal resource adequacy. Additionally, it specifies that electricity purchased from the Bonneville Power Administration under long-term agreements is also excluded from the definition of coal-fired resources, provided the source is known to be from a coal-fired generating unit at the time of the transaction.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that by December 31, 2025, electric utilities must eliminate coal-fired resources from their electricity allocation, while allowing for the inclusion of decommissioning costs in electric rates. It also requires the commission to accelerate depreciation schedules for coal-fired resources and qualified transmission lines, ensuring they are fully depreciated by the same deadline. A new provision allows electric utilities to purchase or exchange power from the Bonneville Power Administration without restriction, reinforcing the state's commitment to transitioning away from coal while maintaining access to necessary power resources.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 19.405.020, 19.405.030