Customer-side resources will be critical as rising electricity demand, extreme weather and climate change impact the Northwest power system 

In January 2024, extreme cold descended on the Northwest, causing a significant spike in electricity demand. At the same time, there were serious challenges for energy supplies across the region. But first and foremost, we want to acknowledge those personally affected by the severe weather and send a heartfelt thank you to all the utility…

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A Single, Unified Western Market

Bonneville Power Administration has a key role 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,…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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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…

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COMMENT NOW: Lower Snake River Dams draft report

July 11 deadline to comment on draft report On June 9, consultants working for Senator Murray and Governor Inslee released the “Lower Snake River Dams: Replacement Benefits Draft Report”. The report analyzes “whether there are reasonable means for replacing the services and benefits provided by the lower Snake River Dams (LSRD) sufficient to support dam…

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