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 electric generation as defined in RCW 19.405.020.

Key amendments include the removal of previous limitations that restricted contracts to qualified alternative energy resources, thereby broadening the scope of eligible projects. The new provisions allow contracts to include the purchase of capability to produce electricity beyond the actual output, ensuring that public entities are obligated to make payments regardless of project completion or operational status. This change is intended to facilitate the development of essential clean energy resources and support the future of Washington's electric power system.

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