AWC creates Clean Energy Transformation Act municipal working group

The Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA), which took effect in May 2019, commits Washington to an electricity supply that’s free of greenhouse gas emissions by 2045. Clean electricity will allow the state to replace fossil fuels in other end uses, especially transportation, and achieve its long-term climate goals.

All electric utilities in Washington must fully eliminate coal-fired resources from their allocation of electricity by 2025. By 2030, each electric utility must make all retail sales of electricity to Washington customers greenhouse gas neutral. By 2045, each electric utility must use non-emitting electric generation and electricity from renewable resources.

Many cities own and operate their own electric utilities (such as the cities of Ellensburg, Port Angeles, and Richland). CETA will affect the way city-owned electric utilities produce electricity. In addition, CETA will impact utilities’ rate setting and financial obligations for low-income users. Utilities must meet several deadlines to comply with CETA and will face large penalties if out of compliance.

AWC has assembled a working group of municipally owned electric utilities to field concerns and feedback regarding CETA rulemaking and implementation. AWC’s working group is a way for cities to participate in the implementation process, engage with various agencies related to CETA, and gather additional resources to address city concerns.

To participate in this working group, please contact Logan or Maggie to be added to the group.