SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5921

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As of March 4, 2009

Title: An act relating to creating a clean energy collaborative.

Brief Description: Creating a clean energy collaborative.

Sponsors: Senators Rockefeller, Pridemore, Ranker, Kline and Kohl-Welles.

Brief History:

Committee Activity: Economic Development, Trade & Innovation: 2/16/09.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, TRADE & INNOVATION

Staff: Jack Brummel (786-7428)

Background: Over the past several years, Washington has begun development of a climate change mitigation strategy. However, clean energy advocates believe Washington has fallen behind other states in developing clean energy policies, incentives and programs, and making strategic investments that support the development of clean technologies and clean energy companies.

Summary of Bill: The bill as referred to committee not considered.

Summary of Bill: The Clean Energy Leadership Initiative is created as a collaborative effort between the Governor's Office and a state-wide public-private clean energy alliance. The Clean Energy Leadership Council, made up of up to 15 members, is created to guide the initiative. The council is to conduct a strategic analysis to identify clean energy industry segments where Washington can be a leading state.

The council is also to develop strategic recommendations and implementation steps to move forward in the development of clean energy efforts. Initial recommendations are to be made to the Governor and the Legislature on procurement and leveraging of federal stimulus funding. The final analysis and recommendations are to be made by December 1, 2009.

After release of the final analysis and recommendations, the council is to convene a clean energy summit with the Governor and legislative leaders.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 13, 2009.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.