The bill seeks to advance the development of distributed energy resources in Washington State, in line with the clean energy transformation act. It focuses on promoting local energy projects, particularly small-scale wind and solar developments on previously disturbed lands, such as landfills and agricultural areas. Key provisions include the establishment of categories for clean energy facilities that qualify as distributed energy priorities, and a categorical exemption from certain regulatory requirements for small solar installations on disturbed lands. The bill also introduces the term "Agrivoltaic facility," clarifying that these facilities do not trigger reclassification or additional taxes for agricultural lands, while ensuring that such lands remain classified for at least ten years unless a withdrawal request is made.

Additionally, the bill amends existing laws to enhance the requirements for qualifying utilities regarding their renewable energy and conservation targets. It allows utilities to count new distributed generation at four times the facility's electrical output under specific criteria and mandates that, starting January 1, 2030, utilities must meet 100% of their average annual retail electric load with renewable resources and nonemitting electric generation. The legislation also introduces a new subsection allowing utilities to exclude voluntary renewable energy purchases from annual targets and establishes definitions for terms like "accelerated conservation" and "demand response." Overall, the bill aims to improve agricultural land use, promote renewable energy initiatives, and enhance the accountability of utilities in achieving their conservation and renewable energy goals.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 19.285.040
Substitute Bill: 19.285.040
Engrossed Substitute: 84.34.020, 84.34.070, 19.285.040
Bill as Passed Legislature: 84.34.020, 84.34.070, 19.285.040
Session Law: 84.34.020, 84.34.070, 19.285.040