This bill aims to enhance the ability of public entities in Washington to invest in renewable and nonemitting electric generation projects. It recognizes the increasing demand for electricity and the need to meet the state's clean energy goals, which necessitates greater flexibility for local governments and public entities in their energy investments. The bill amends several sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) to allow cities, towns, and districts to contract for the capability of electric generation projects, specifically those utilizing renewable resources or nonemitting generation, rather than being limited to previously defined alternative energy resources.

Key amendments include the removal of restrictions that limited contracts to qualified alternative energy resources and the introduction of provisions that allow for the purchase of capability to produce electricity in addition to actual output. This means that public entities can now enter into contracts that require them to make payments regardless of whether a project is completed or operational, and these payments will not be subject to reduction based on the performance of the contracting parties. The bill also expands the types of entities with which public entities can contract, including both public and private project owners.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 35.22.705, 35.23.705, 35.27.610, 35.92.420, 35A.80.020, 35A.80.050, 43.52.410, 43.52.595, 54.16.370