Northwest Power Planning
Weigh in on the 7th Power Plan
The Northwest Power and Conservation Council, the region’s official power planning agency, has just released the draft of its seventh regional power plan. The public now has 60 days to provide written reactions and opportunities to attend and testify at public hearings in all four Northwest states.
Press Release: Draft power plan relies on energy efficiency
The new proposed power plan for Northwest states calls for meeting growing electric needs by using the power we have more efficiently and sees no immediate regional need for any new gas-fired plants. On Wednesday, the region’s official power planning agency, the Northwest Power and Conservation Council, approved the draft of its seventh regional plan.
Coalition study finds negligible cost for effective salmon recovery action
Nearly 35 years after the Northwest Power Act mandated equal treatment for fish and power generation in the Columbia-Snake system, 13 of the basin’s wild salmon and steelhead stocks are still listed under the Endangered Species Act. Recovery will require, among other measures, changes in hydropower system operations that will reduce electricity generation, such as dam removal or greatly increased spill over the dams. What would replacing the power cost Northwest energy consumers and how does it compare to escalating costs of maintaining aging power system infrastructure?
Coalition honors clean energy leaders with Headwaters awards
Two clean energy pioneers have been honored for their efforts with NW Energy Coalition Headwaters awards. Coalition executive director Nancy Hirsh recently presented colorful plaques and vials of water drawn from the headwaters of the Columbia River – Columbia Lake in British Columbia, to Alan Zelenka and Mike Nelson.
Testify on WA energy building codes on Oct. 16th in Olympia!
Washington state’s Building Code Council is considering a package of energy code improvements crucial to achieving the state goal of a 70% reduction in annual energy use by 2031. Despite their negligible costs and broad climate, comfort and energy-saving benefits, the proposals will likely draw opposition from some in the building industry and elsewhere. That’s why clean and affordable energy advocates must proclaim their support for these reasonable and cost-effective measures.
Coalition's comments voice strong support for 2015 Washington State Energy Code Proposals
The NW Energy Coalition expressed strong support for the 2015 Washington State Energy Code Proposals in the comments submitted to the Washington State Building Code Council. “Because increased energy efficiency remains the cleanest and cheapest way to meet our state’s building energy needs, the NW Energy Coalition urges you and your colleagues to adopt the…
Northwest Power and Conservation Council and other planners systematically underestimate efficiency savings from new products
Regional energy efficiency achievements have far exceeded power planners’ expectations for the past 15 years. Better-than-expected savings sound great for consumers and the environment … and they are. But underestimating future efficiency savings can lead to false conclusions about the need for new power plants, resulting in unnecessary expenses that raise consumers’ bills.
NWEC fall conference site's eco features
This December, the NW Energy Coalition presents the 2015 Clean & Affordable Energy Conference and Awards Gala at the fantastic and eco-friendly Conference Center at the Washington State Convention Center. The Conference Center reflects the ecologically-conscious values of Coalition members and allies, and we think it’s the perfect place to tackle our region’s most pressing energy issues.
Coalition honors I-937 architect with Headwaters Award
Former Coalition senior policy associate Danielle Dixon (left) receives the Headwaters Award from Coalition executive director Nancy Hirsh. The Headwaters is awarded annually to a member the NWEC’s extended family to recognize exceptional leadership for the a clean and affordable energy future.
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Announcing our Fall 2015 Clean & Affordable Energy Conference keynote speaker: Dr. Nancy E. Ryan
Dr. Ryan will tell us how vehicle electrification can advance our clean energy future and howe to realize the promised benefits of reduced emissions and greater energy efficiency. An economist with more than two decades of experience, she previously held high-level appointed positions at the California Public Utilities Commission, guiding development of policies in electric transportation, renewable energy, smart grid, energy storage, and long-term planning and procurement.
Send us your nominees for the annual 4 Under Forty honors!
Join us December 3 to celebrate our 4 Under Forty honorees during our Awards Gala. Know an up and coming energy leader that is working to ensure a clean and affordable energy future? Nominate them today! Deadline for submissions is Oct. 9, 2015.