Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research | BILL ANALYSIS |
Technology & Economic Development Committee |
HB 1998
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent. |
Brief Description: Allowing public utility districts to produce and sell renewable natural gas.
Sponsors: Representatives Johnson, Morris, Short, Wylie, Smith, McCabe, Nealey, Tarleton, Tharinger and Van De Wege.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Hearing Date: 2/17/15
Staff: Nikkole Hughes (786-7156).
Background:
Public Utility Districts.
A public utility district (PUD) is a type of special purpose district authorized by the Legislature for the purpose of generating and distributing electricity, providing water and sewer services, and providing telecommunications services. A PUD may operate on a countywide basis or may encompass a smaller jurisdiction. A PUD is governed by a board of either three or five elected commissioners.
Authority of a Public Utility District to Produce and Distribute Biodiesel, Ethanol, and Ethanol Blend Fuels.
A PUD has the authority to produce and distribute biodiesel, ethanol, and ethanol blend fuels, including entering into crop purchase contracts for a dedicated energy crop for the purpose of generating electricity or producing biodiesel for use in internal operations or for sale or distribution.
Summary of Bill:
A PUD is authorized to produce renewable natural gas for use in internal operations or for sale. A PUD may not own or operate natural gas distribution pipeline systems used to serve retail customers.
Pipes connecting a PUD's renewable natural gas production facilities to gas transmission pipelines are considered production facilities and are not considered distribution pipeline systems used to serve retail customers.
"Renewable natural gas" means a gas consisting largely of methane and other hydrocarbons derived from the decomposition of organic materials in landfills, wastewater treatment facilities, and anaerobic digesters.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on February 11, 2015.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.