The bill focuses on advancing distributed alternative energy resources in Washington State while minimizing impacts on natural habitats, communities, and agricultural lands. It introduces new sections to chapter 43.21F RCW that define clean energy facilities and nonproject activities as distributed energy priorities, including solar and wind energy generation, energy storage, and electricity demand management programs. The legislation emphasizes the use of existing infrastructure and previously disturbed lands for energy projects, such as solar installations on landfills or agricultural lands, to balance energy production with agricultural viability. Additionally, it mandates the Department of Ecology to streamline processes for clean energy projects with minimal environmental impact and allows for certain small-scale projects to be exempt from environmental review requirements.

The bill also revises the definition of "farm and agricultural land," establishing clearer criteria for land classification based on acreage and income requirements. It specifies that qualifying parcels must be 20 acres or more or contiguous parcels totaling 20 acres, and updates income thresholds for smaller parcels. The introduction of the term "agrivoltaic facility" allows for solar energy production alongside agricultural activities without reclassifying the land. The bill outlines conditions for maintaining agricultural land classification, including a ten-year minimum classification period and provisions for reclassification. It ensures that agrivoltaic facilities do not incur additional taxes or penalties, promoting agricultural conservation while integrating renewable energy practices.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 43.21C.530, 19.405.060, 19.405.090, 19.280.030, 84.34.020, 84.34.070, 36.70A.177, 36.70A.060
Substitute Bill: 43.21C.530, 84.34.020, 84.34.070
Second Substitute: 43.21C.530, 84.34.020, 84.34.070