Mandatory Utility Green Power Option

In May 2001, Washington enacted legislation (EHB 2247) that requires all electric utilities serving more than 25,000 customers to offer customers the option of purchasing renewable energy. Eligible renewables include wind, solar, geothermal, landfill gas, wave or tidal action, wastewater treatment gas, certain biomass resources, and "qualified hydropower" that is fish-friendly. Beginning January 1, 2002, each electric utility must inform its customers on a quarterly basis of the voluntary option to purchase green power. The details of each utility's program must be approved by the state, and annual reports must be submitted from October 1, 2002, to October 1, 2012. A report summarizing the utilities' reports will be provided each year to the legislature. The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) oversees programs developed by the state's investor-owned utilities. For information on a green power program offered by a specific utility, contact the utility directly.