The bill seeks to clarify the responsibilities of electric utilities in Washington regarding energy assistance for low-income households, without expanding their existing obligations. It emphasizes collaboration among utilities, public agencies, and nonprofit organizations to deliver assistance efficiently while minimizing administrative costs. The legislation specifies that utilities are only responsible for addressing energy assistance needs related to electricity, excluding other energy sources. Key amendments include a new section that expresses the legislature's intent to reduce energy burdens from electricity use and mandates that utilities offer at least one energy assistance program for low-income households.

Additionally, the bill requires the collection and aggregation of data on energy assistance for low-income households, starting July 31, 2020, with updates biennially. This data will include demographic characteristics, energy burdens, and housing details of households receiving assistance. Electric utilities must provide comprehensive information about their programs and submit a biennial assessment of their efforts to reduce energy burdens. The Department is also tasked with submitting a biennial report to the legislature on statewide energy assistance programs and their effectiveness. Notably, the bill introduces new legal language focusing on electric utilities and assessments related to electricity use while deleting certain language about community outreach strategies, while ensuring that the rate-making authority of governing bodies remains unchanged.

Statutes affected:
Original bill: 19.405.020, 19.405.120