News
RAP updates classic guide to U.S. electricity regulation
The Regulatory Assistance Project (RAP), a non-profit dedicated to a clean, reliable and energy efficient energy future, has re-released its expert handbook, Electricity Regulation in the US: A Guide. Newly addressed in this edition is integrated distribution system planning, a complete approach to meeting distribution needs through grid modernization.
Member spotlight: Oregon Solar Energy Industries Association
The Oregon Solar Energy Industries Association is the NW Energy Coalition’s newest organizational member. A solar energy trade association, OSEIA collaborates with utilities, legislators, non-profits and academics to promote solar development in Oregon. OSEIA engages in community education, legislative and regulatory advocacy, market expansion and industry support. It is a crucial organizing association for solar industry professionals in Oregon.
NW Energy Coalition presents "Columbia-Snake River Salmon BiOp" 7/28 11:30 am
Join the NW Energy Coalition for a conversation about the latest federal court rejection of the government’s plan (biological opinion) for recovering salmon harmed by the Columbia-Snake hydropower system. The decision is a big win for Columbia Basin wild salmon.
Clean energy, consumer advocates outline good rate design principles
The NW Energy Coalition is among 32 consumer, clean energy and environmental organizations urging utility regulators to adopt uniform principles for making rate design changes. Northwest utilities, like others across the country, are reconsidering their business models as energy efficiency and consumer-owned distributed generation reduce electric demand. Many are considering higher fixed charges, minimum bills and other approaches that could impede progress toward a clean, affordable and equitable energy future.
Clean Air Rule: Schedule for Ecology Public Hearing Process
The Washington Ecology Department has released the revised draft of its Clean Air Rule, which aims to lower some of Washington’s carbon emissions 30% by 2035. There are multiple opportunities in the coming weeks to participate, learn more and comment on the rule. Ecology’s schedule is summarized within.
"Seattle City Light Among Seven Recipients Presented with First Climate Adaption Leadership Award for Natural Resources"
Seattle City Light won the inaugural Climate Adaptation Leadership Award for Natural Resources in the state/local category, the US Department of the Interior announced today. City Light is being recognized for demonstrating exemplary leadership in reducing climate-related threats and adapting the management of hydropower resources to help ensure that the recovery and protection of fish and wildlife can be achieved in the face of climate change.
PRESS RELEASE: NW Energy Coalition statement on Department of Ecology’s new draft Clean Air Rule
The NW Energy Coalition applauds Gov. Jay Inslee and the Department of Ecology for their commitment to reducing Washington state carbon emissions. The draft Clean Air Rule released today is positive step toward that goal. The rule is a small step, however, and not nearly as complete as a comprehensive legislative solution needs to be.
Coalition conference featuring Montana governor and NorthWestern Energy CEO draws big crowd in Missoula
Overflow crowds greeted Montana Gov. Steve Bullock, NorthWestern Energy CEO Bob Rowe, and a host of renewable energy and energy efficiency advocates and providers at the Spring 2016 NW Clean & Affordable Energy Conference in Missoula on May 19. More than 120 people from around the region attended this edition of the NW Energy Coalition’s twice-yearly conference, which rotates through Oregon, Idaho, Washington and Montana. Coalition members returned the next day to elect board members, select annual award winners and strategize.
Missoulian: "Renewable energy advocates discuss future of traditional utility companies"
NorthWestern Energy Corp. Chief Executive Officer Bob Rowe spent an hour taking questions from the audience about how Montana’s biggest energy utility plans to deal with the fate of Colstrip power plants, renewable energy sources and how traditional power companies will co-exist with changing public desires.
Idaho's Snake River Alliance and partners roll out 'Solarize the Valley' campaign
A new program called “Solarize the Valley,” sponsored by the Snake River Alliance, is going to make rooftop solar energy more affordable and popular than ever before in the Treasure Valley, starting today. Out of the 1 million solar installations in America, less than .01% of them are in Idaho. But that’s about to change.