Technology and Economic Development committee discussing bill
Brian Coddington, Communications Director, 509.625.6740
Thursday, February 20, 2014 at 1:43 p.m.
A bill that would make power generated by the City's Waste to Energy facility eligible for a renewable energy credit is headed for debate in the Washington State House of Representatives.
Senate Bill 6028, sponsored by Sen. Michael Baumgartner of Spokane, was scheduled for a first reading before the Technology and Economic Development committee today. The Senate passed the bill 26-21 on Tuesday. Sen. Andy Billig of Spokane helped draft the bill language.
“Renewable designation for power generated by the Waste to Energy facility helps us deliver outstanding service and keep rates affordable for citizens,” said Spokane Mayor David Condon.
“The City is working to make decisions that are environmentally responsible and still affordable,” said Spokane City Council President Ben Stuckart. “The City Council unanimously supported it as a top legislative priority.”
The federal government, 26 other states, the European Union and many other countries consider this energy source renewable. A renewable energy designation will make the power produced at the Waste to Energy Facility more valuable, keeping rates more affordable for citizens.
Spokane's Waste to Energy Plant is part of an overall comprehensive solid waste system that encourages recycling and waste reduction – along with the recovery of energy.
