Bill > HB1018

This bill adds fusion energy facilities to the types of energy facilities that may obtain site certification under Washington state's Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) process. Specifically, the bill modifies existing law to include fusion energy facilities as an optional type of facility that can seek site certification, with the requirement that such facilities also secure necessary radiation control licenses from state or federal agencies. The bill updates multiple sections of the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) 80.50, which governs the siting of energy facilities, to explicitly include fusion energy and provide a framework for its potential development. The changes align with Washington state's broader policy goals of reducing fossil fuel dependence, promoting clean energy, strengthening the state's economy, and mitigating climate change impacts. By adding fusion energy to the list of facilities that can be reviewed through the EFSEC process, the bill creates a pathway for potential fusion energy projects to be evaluated and potentially developed in the state, subject to rigorous environmental and safety review.