HB 1047 - DIGEST

Declares an intent to establish a goal of encouraging the construction and development of renewable energy in the state of Washington to meet increasing demands for affordable and reliable electricity. Since electricity supply may lag behind electricity demand, the result may be a sharp increase in electricity prices.

Finds that it is desirable to shorten the time it takes to bring new electricity generation to market. Washington is a leader in the development of renewable energy technologies and the legislature acknowledges that encouraging the development of renewable technologies in meeting increased electricity demand will create jobs for Washington's citizens.

Requires the department to review the integrated resource plans of consumer-owned utilities and prepare a report to the legislature. The report shall include a statewide summary of utility load forecasts, load/resource balance, and utility plans for the development of thermal generation, renewable resources, and efficiency resources. The commission shall provide the department with data summarizing activities of investor-owned utilities for use in the department's statewide summary.

Directs the department to submit the initial report by December 1, 2006, and subsequent reports every two years thereafter. Where appropriate, the department may include reports required by this section within the biennial report required under RCW 43.21F.045.