Showing posts with label Renewable Energy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Renewable Energy. Show all posts

2.01.2010

Legislation Attempts to Block Progress on the Energy Code

The AIA/WA testified in opposition to House Bill 2928 on Friday, Jan. 29. This bill was introduced because the Joint Administrative Rules Review Committee (JARRC) submitted two petitions regarding the State Building Code Council (SBCC) processes regarding creation of new energy codes.

JARRC asserts that the SBCC didn't complete the requested small-business impact statement or a satisfactory cost benefit analysis, so they turned to the legislature. The SBCC stated that it did comply with the requests of the JARRC in the best manner possible and that such an analysis based on one code, not all codes as a whole, is nearly impossible.

The AIA/WA believes the intent of this bill is focused on slowing the institution of new energy code policy adopted in 2009. HB 2928, while focused on the process of how the SBCC carried out its duties, effectively blocks implementation of the new energy code. If passed, HB 2928 will obstruct the new energy code policy and put Washington behind on its energy efficiency goals.

AIA/WA Executive Director Stan Bowman testified in opposition and Angie Homola, County Commissioner for Island County and a licensed architect, testified as well.

Homola sits on the SBCC and was able to highlight the rigorous steps taken by the SBCC during rule creation for the new state energy code. Homola testified in opposition and stated her willingness to work with the sponsor, Rep. Hasegawa, to find a different approach regarding processes.

9.10.2009

Pending Rulemaking on Renewable Energy

The Department of Revenue is holding a public meeting regarding Renewable Energy System Cost Recovery (Rule 273 - WAC 458-20-273).

The meeting will be held:
September 22, 2009 @ 10:00 AM
WA State Criminal Justice Training Commission (WSCJTC)
19010 - 1st Avenue South
Burien, Washington 98148

The public meeting will examine amendments to Rule 273 due to the passage of Senate Bill 6170, which is the new legislation that amended the rule.

The effects of the new legislation are:
(1) increases the annual payment limitations to consumers,
(2) increases the limitations on the incentive payments made by participating light and power businesses,
(3) changes the formula used to determine payment amounts based on "economic development kilowatt-hours," and
(4) extends the incentive program to community solar projects.

You can see the agenda for the meeting and find out additional information by clicking here.

7.22.2009

NGA Endorses 2030 Goals

The AIA has received press coverage from the New York Times regarding its 2030 goals. What garnered the attention of the paper was an endorsement by the National Governors Association (NGA) as part of their resolution on energy efficiency.

Washington State was at the forefront of reducing greenhouse gas emissions with the passage of Senate Bill 5854 during the 2009 Legislative Session. Governor Gregoire announced shortly after signing the bill that she would be taking the new legislation to NGA meeting so that other states could effectively mirror it.

With NGA’s resolution a new push for every state to implement a carbon neutral construction code will begin. You can read the NY Times article here.

2.16.2009

AIA WA Member Testifies in Support of Efficiency First Legislation

AIAWA members Marc Jenefsky, of JensenFey, testified in support if SB 5854 which aims to reduce climate pollution in the built environment.

Jenefsky testified about how this bill and its goals are good for creating quality jobs and the environment. Jenefsky also detailed how the goals of the bill are achievable, affordable and desirable. See his testimony below. For the entire hearing on this bill visit TVW here.

3.10.2007

Senate Passes Environmental Bills

The State Senate took up and passed several environmental bills today.

The highest profile bill was Substitute SB 6001 addressing global warming. The bill establishes state goals for reducing greenhouse gases and promotes the use of cleaner energy.

Also passing today was Second Substitute SB 6117 promoting the use of reclaimed water. Reclaimed water is part of the AIA/WA’s water conservation focus.

Engrossed Substitute SB 5372 establishes the Puget Sound Partnership as a new state agency focused on cleaning up Puget Sound. The bill sets a goal of attaining a healthy Puget Sound by 2020. While there are many bills dealing with water quality, ESSB 5372 sets the overall regulatory framework to coordinate efforts.

The Energy Freedom Program was enacted in 2006 to promote the development of renewable energy resources in the farming industry. These efforts include the conversion of farm waste into energy. SB 5383 expands the program to include wind power projects owned by community action agencies in the state.

SB 5421 adopts The Uniform Environmental Covenants Act (UECA). Environmental covenants control future use of contaminated land to ensure it that it is appropriately developed. The UECA ensures that environmental covenants remain legally valid over the long term. Adoption of the UECA is an important step in the future redevelopment of brownfields and other contaminated sites.