Weekly Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA) Bulletin

Source: Washington Department of Commerce, November 30, 2020

Announcements

UTC accepting comments on interpretation of electricity use requirement

In publishing proposed CETA rules, both Commerce and the Utilities and Transportation Commission deferred proposing rule language interpreting the requirement in RCW 19.405.040(1)(a) that a utility use at least 80% renewable or non-emitting electricity under the 2030 Greenhouse Gas Neutral standard. Stakeholders have differed on what is required to “use” electricity in this context. Commerce circulated draft rule language in August on the topic (draft sections 194-40-320 and 194-40-410).

The UTC is now requesting written comments in Docket UE-191023 on specific questions about this issue. Commerce encourages stakeholders to assist both agencies by reviewing the UTC notice and providing responses. The UTC’s comment deadline is Thursday, Dec. 3.

CR-102 Submitted for Phase 2 of the CETA rules

Commerce filed proposed rule language on Oct. 21 to implement the Clean Energy Transformation Act, Washington’s landmark clean electricity legislation enacted in 2019. The proposed rules were published in the Washington State Register, and Commerce has scheduled a formal hearing and written comment opportunity on Dec. 2. The Legislature has directed Commerce to adopt rules implementing CETA by Dec. 31.

Commerce has also posted the proposed rules and supporting documents on its CETA rulemaking webpage. These documents include the rule language, a marked up comparison to the second discussion draft, and a summary of stakeholder comments and agency responses.

Upcoming events and deadlines

DateEventTopic
Dec. 2Public hearing and commentsPublic hearing and deadline for stakeholder comments
Dec. 3UTC comment deadlineUse of electricity under 2030 Greenhouse Gas Neutral standard