HOUSE BILL REPORT

HCR 4434

BYRepresentatives Nelson, Barnes, Todd and Jacobsen

Affirming the need for a state hydroelectric development plan.

House Committe on Energy & Utilities

Majority Report:  Do pass. (14)

      Signed by Representatives Nelson, Chair; Todd, Vice Chair; Armstrong, Barnes, Gallagher, Hankins, Jacobsen, Jesernig, May, Meyers, Miller, Sutherland, Unsoeld and S. Wilson.

House Staff:Fred Adair (786-7113)

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES JANUARY 29, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The federal Electric Consumers Protection Act of 1986 gave states a definite role in hydroelectric project licensing before the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) through the means of a state comprehensive hydroelectric development plan.  A study was made over the past year of state needs relative to a plan.  A central recommendation of the study is to prepare a state comprehensive plan.  Preparation of an effective comprehensive plan will be time consuming.  Definitive intentions enunciated by the legislature can enhance the state's status before FERC in license proceedings taking place before completion of the state comprehensive plan.

SUMMARY:

The need for a state comprehensive hydroelectric development plan is affirmed.  Principal state interests in hydroelectric development cases are delineated and the governor is urged to make budgetary and other preparations to complete the plan during the next (1989-1991) biennium.

Fiscal Note:      Not Requested.

House Committee ‑ Testified For:    Rod Sakrison, Department of Ecology, also speaking for the Departments of Fisheries and Wildlife, the Energy Office and the Parks and Recreation Commission.

House Committee - Testified Against:      None Presented.

House Committee - Testimony For:    The resolution accurately describes concerns and the course that should be followed in developing a state comprehensive hydroelectric development plan.  A Plan should be prepared.

House Committee - Testimony Against:      None Presented.