Policy
2023 Montana Legislative Session Wrap Up
The 2023 Montana State Legislature adjourned on May 2nd, 2023, the 87th legislative day. Republicans held a super majority and the ability to override a Governor veto. While much of the attention was placed on social issues, several anti-clean energy bills passed. A large focus was placed on eliminating the ability for localities to make…
2023 Washington Legislative Session Wrap Up
The 2023 Washington State Legislative session concluded on April 24 and there were several significant victories for clean, affordable, and equitable energy. This year’s legislative session was a “long session,” during which the capital and operating budgets are passed. It was also the first year that revenue was available from the Climate Commitment Act (CCA)…
Western Market Benefits to the Northwest
The West is in the midst of determining how to structure itself into electricity markets, with significant implications for utilities, customers, and the future of a clean, equitable, and affordable western grid. Electricity markets can coordinate and optimize the electricity grid, creating a system that is more reliable, can transition to clean energy faster, and…
Government electricity procurement should kickstart the next wave of clean energy investments in the Northwest
The Northwest is leading the way towards a decarbonized energy system in the US. To meet new and growing electricity demand, we must build on the foundation of our hydropower system with the next generation of clean and renewable energy resources. Accelerating the development of new, non-hydro renewable energy and storage resources can decrease pressure…
Markets 101 webinar: recording & slides
On February 15, 2023, the NW Energy Coalition and Renewable Northwest hosted a Markets 101 webinar to discuss the importance of regional electricity markets. The webinar was attended by more than 80 people from across the Northwest. Below you can find a link to the recording of the webinar as well as the slides. You…
Customer-side resources can reduce risks from volatile energy prices
Winter is here. It’s barely February and we’ve already witnessed the value of a diversified energy system and the risks that come from fossil fuels. Volatile fossil fuel prices are causing concern for customers that end up footing the bill when their utility purchases fossil-fueled power. By accelerating our investments in customer-side resources, we can…
Markets 101 Webinar – February 15, 2023
Presented by: NW Energy Coalition & Renewable Northwest February 15, 2023 12-2pm PT Register here. Join NW Energy Coalition and Renewable Northwest for a virtual 101 discussion about the importance of regional electricity markets. At a high level, expert panelists will give an overview of why markets are important for: With several market options on…
Electric vehicle charging standards adopted in Washington
The Washington State Department of Agriculture (WSDA) recently adopted standards for public electric (EV) vehicle charging, often referred to under the more technical name, electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE). On December 16th, 2022, the Department adopted the final rule, which will take effect on January 1, 2024. By the end of 2022, there were over…
Legislative Priorities for 2023
Each year, the NW Energy Coalition advocates at the state level for priority bills and funding to advance a clean, affordable, and equitable energy future. This year’s state legislative sessions are kicking off this month. See our priorities for Washington, Oregon, and Montana below. Washington Investments in Clean Energy and Building Retrofits This year’s legislative…