Brief Description: Designating state route number 5 as Washington hydrogen highway.

Sponsors: Representatives B. Sullivan, Morris, Simpson, Haler, Lovick, Wallace, Wood, Clibborn, Upthegrove, Linville, Jarrett, Fromhold, Conway, Hankins, Kretz, O'Brien, Kristiansen, Springer, Sells, Buri, Anderson and Ericks.

Hearing Date: 2/1/06

Staff: Harvey Childs (786-7322).

Background:

Hydrogen is a non-carbon energy carrier that can be made from renewable energy. Hydrogen-powered vehicles and infrastructure can lead to energy independence, a significant reduction in smog-forming emissions and a commensurate reduction in health problems due to air pollution, decreased water pollution from oil and gasoline leaks, and quieter and smoother vehicle operation.

Targeted for full implementation by the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Canada is developing the BC Hydrogen Highway ™. Funding of approximately $1.1 million has provided for the BC Hydrogen Highway which is a coordinated, large-scale demonstration and deployment program intended to accelerate the commercialization of hydrogen and fuel-cell technologies.

The objective of this project is to form a consortium of organizations to design, build, operate, test and evaluate a hydrogen fueling infrastructure along a corridor between Vancouver and Whistler, with an extension to Victoria. The project will demonstrate a wide variety of transportation, stationary, portable and micropower applications that can utilize the hydrogen fueling infrastructure.
      
The project will allow visitors to travel between the Vancouver Airport and Whistler for the 2010 Olympics. This bill extends this designation of "Hydrogen Highway" within Washington state, south to the Oregon border.

Additionally, California is proposing funding to implement the Hydrogen Highway Network. The goal of this initiative is to support and catalyze a rapid transition to a clean, hydrogen transportation economy in California.

Summary of Bill:

State route number 5 beginning at the Washington-Oregon boundary line at Vancouver, Washington to the international boundary line in the vicinity of Blaine, Washington is to be designated the Washington Hydrogen Highway.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

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