The public deadline to submit comments on Washington State's rulemaking on Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) was November 16, 2007. The purpose of the rulemaking is to implement Chapter 19.285 RCW of the Energy Independance Act. This act codifies the November 2006 passage of voter initiative 937 (I-937). I-937 requires large utilities to obtain 15% of their electricity from new renewable resources such as solar and wind (and Tidal, Ocean and Wave energy) by 2020, and to undertake cost-effective energy conservation. For additional information go to the Washington State. Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development. Two public meetings were held on this issue: November 9th at the Department of Community Trade and Economic Development in Olympia, and November 14th at the Spokane International Airport.

The Hydropower Reform Coalition has been following this issue and supported the original initiative that says that any hydropower included as part of a renewable portfolio standard should drive improved performance at existing dams -- either by rewarding low-impact hydropower or by rewarding increased power generation with no additional impacts. As currently written, Washington State's RPS is one of the strongest in the nation. The draft rules identify eligible renewable resources as "electricity from a generation facility powered by a renewable resource other than fresh water that commences after March 31, 1999." Hydropower can only be included as renewable energy if the electricity produced is a result of efficiency improvements, and where the additional electricity generated is not a result of new water diversions or impoundments. This includes irrigation pipes and canals and refers only to existing dams. It would not include new dams.

The Hydropower Reform Coalition provided comments from our members. Please check below to read Coalition comments.