Brief Description: Encouraging the use of hydroelectric power.

Sponsors: Representatives Morris, Crouse, Haler, Grant, Condotta, Linville, Blake, Kessler, Anderson, Chase and Santos.

Hearing Date: 3/1/05

Staff: Sarah Dylag (786-7109).

Background:

In Washington, most of the electricity sold to retail customers is generated by hydroelectric power. According to the state's 2004 fuel mix disclosure report using 2003 electricity production data, hydroelectric power accounts for 66.6 percent of electricity sold; coal represents 17.7 percent; nuclear power supplies 4.6 percent; and natural gas 9.8 percent. Non-hydro renewable resources such as wind, landfill gas, or biomass represent 1.3 percent.

Summary of Bill:

The Legislature makes a number of findings:

• Water is a clean and sustainable resource that produces clean, efficient, and low-cost power;
• There is an increasing demand for clean and renewable power;
• Hydroelectric power is an abundant and reliable source of power with potential for growth;
• Hydroelectric power makes a valuable contribution to the state's electricity network and accounts for more than half of the state's overall fuel mix; and
• Hydroelectric power balances the needs of the environment with the need for clean, nonpolluting, reliable, and abundant electricity for the electrical market.

States that it is the policy of the state to recognize water as a renewable energy resource and to encourage the use of hydroelectric power.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.