SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 5213

BYSenators Williams, Owen, Smitherman and Conner

Revising provisions relating to construction of energy facilities.

Senate Committee on Energy & Utilities

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 27, 1987; March 3, 1987

Majority Report:  That Substitute Senate Bill No. 5213 be substituted therefor, and the substitute bill do pass.

      Signed by Senators Williams, Chairman; Owen, Vice Chairman; Cantu, Nelson, Smitherman, Stratton.

Senate Staff:Paul Parker (786-7455)

                  March 3, 1987

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES, MARCH 3, 1987

BACKGROUND:

The Bonneville Power Administration is currently evaluating whether construction of WNP-1 or WNP-3 should be terminated.  The two nuclear projects are now being preserved in case the region needs the power they would produce at a later date.  Whether termination is cost-effective in the short run may depend on the timing and extent of site restoration.

The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) is the state agency that authorizes the construction and oversees the operation of energy facilities in Washington.  EFSEC determines the extent of necessary site restoration for projects it has authorized, including the WPPSS projects on which construction has been suspended or terminated.

SUMMARY:

The definition of construction is amended to clarify that EFSEC oversight includes all work associated with preservation or termination, through the completion of site restoration.  EFSEC is directed to carry out its duty to protect the public health and environment in the case of suspension or termination of construction at a reasonable cost to the citizens of the state.

Fiscal Note:      requested

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

EFFECT OF PROPOSED SUBSTITUTE:

Technical changes are made.

Senate Committee - Testified: Robert Olsen, Mason County PUD 3; Ron English, Supply System; Tom Casey, Grays Harbor PUD; Bill Fitch, EFSEC; Curt Eschels, EFSEC