Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS
Environment & Energy Committee
SSB 5919
Brief Description: Concerning the sale of biogenic carbon dioxide and other coproducts of biogas processing.
Sponsors: Senate Committee on Environment, Energy & Technology (originally sponsored by Senator King).
Brief Summary of Substitute Bill
  • Authorizes public utility districts to sell biogenic carbon dioxide and other biogas products.
Hearing Date: 2/15/24
Staff: Megan McPhaden (786-7114).
Background:

Biogas.

 

Biogas refers to the gasses produced from the anaerobic decomposition of organic material in landfills, wastewater treatment facilities, and anaerobic digesters.  Biogas is comprised primarily of methane and carbon dioxide.  The methane from biogas can be purified to make renewable natural gas, which consists primarily of the methane from biogas, and is considered a renewable resource.

 

Public Utility Districts.


Public utility districts are engaged in the provision of energy, water, sewer, and solid waste services.


Public utility districts may produce renewable natural gas, green electrolytic hydrogen, and renewable hydrogen, and may use these materials for internal operations.  Public utility districts may also sell renewable natural gas, green electrolytic hydrogen, or renewable hydrogen at wholesale or to an end-use customer, with specifications.
Summary of Bill:

Biogenic Carbon Dioxide.


Public utility districts may sell biogenic carbon dioxide and other marketable coproducts from the processing of biogas to an end-use customer or at wholesale.


Biogenic carbon dioxide is carbon dioxide produced from:  (1) biogas; (2) the decomposition or processing of biomass; or (3) a byproduct from biological processes in an industrial or manufacturing facility.  Biogenic carbon dioxide is not carbon dioxide produced from the combustion or processing of fossil fuels.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Available.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of the session in which the bill is passed.