Bill > HB2416

This bill aims to ensure fair treatment of waste-to-energy facilities within the state's climate commitment act, which is a program designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Specifically, starting in 2027, waste-to-energy facilities built before 1992 will receive a decreasing percentage of "cost allowances," which are essentially credits for emissions, through 2030, provided they comply with federal laws and state air quality standards. A portion of these allowances must be auctioned, with the proceeds intended for projects that further reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the facility, subject to departmental approval of proposals. The bill also modifies how allowances are handled in the "emissions containment reserve," a mechanism to stabilize allowance prices, by including situations where facilities curtail or close operations. Additionally, it clarifies that electric utilities will not receive allowances for emissions from waste-to-energy facilities that have their own compliance obligations under the climate commitment act. Finally, by 2030, these older waste-to-energy facilities must submit a plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve waste reduction and material recovery, considering environmental justice and community input.