Bill > SB6171

This bill establishes new regulations for "emerging large energy use facilities," which are defined as facilities with a high electricity demand (20 megawatts or more) primarily engaged in data processing services. The bill aims to ensure these facilities contribute to energy affordability, grid reliability, transparency, and environmental protection. Key provisions include requiring utilities to develop specific tariffs or policies for these facilities, ensuring they cover the full costs of service and do not shift expenses to other customers. Emerging large energy use facilities will also be required to publish sustainability reports detailing their energy and water consumption, refrigerant use, and emissions, and to meet increasing requirements for using 100% clean energy over time, starting with 80% by 2031 and 100% by 2036. Additionally, a new fee will be imposed on these facilities, with the revenue directed towards energy assistance programs and higher education initiatives focused on quantum computing and artificial intelligence. The bill also mandates that construction projects for these facilities utilize community workforce agreements and pay prevailing wages. Finally, it amends existing law to exclude emerging large energy use facilities from certain cost mitigation benefits related to emissions programs, starting in the second compliance period.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=6171&Year=2025&Initiative=false