Bill > HB1960

This bill establishes a comprehensive framework for encouraging renewable energy development in Washington state through tax policy and local community investments. It creates a new state and local renewable energy excise tax on solar and wind energy generating systems and energy storage systems, with varying tax rates based on the system's age, type, and capacity. The bill provides property tax exemptions for renewable energy facilities that become operational or are repowered after January 1, 2026, and establishes a renewable energy development local investment commitment matching grant program to incentivize local governments to support clean energy projects. The legislation sets standardized guidelines for siting renewable energy projects, including specific setback requirements and restrictions on local ordinances, and requires wind energy facility developers to provide detailed decommissioning plans and financial assurances. Additionally, the bill creates a biennial capacity grant program for federally recognized tribes to support consultation, climate resilience, and clean energy project development. The renewable energy excise tax revenues will be deposited into a local community investment account, with a portion intended to support tribal grants and local community investments. The bill is designed to help Washington achieve its clean energy goals while ensuring economic benefits for local communities and addressing potential environmental and community impacts of renewable energy projects.

Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=1960&Year=2025&Initiative=false