By Frank Andorka, Senior Correspondent
Washington Governor Jay Inslee announced his aggressive plans to reduce the state’s carbon emissions. As part of those plans, he has pledged the state to get to 100% clean energy by 2045, following California and several other states who have decided to decarbonize tehir electrical systems. He talked with SolarWakeup about the decision.
SolarWakeup: Where does Washington currently stand in its clean energy development?
Washington Governor Jay Inslee: Washington’s electricity is about 75% carbon free, predominantly hydro. You can find more information here and here.
SolarWakeup: What first inspired you to decide to set 2045 as a 100% clean electricity date?
Jay Inslee: This timeline sets a reasonable glide path for depreciating long-lived infrastructure and allows for innovation to continue to make clean energy more affordable. Utilities conduct resource planning over 20-year horizons, so we believe this timeline gives them plenty of time to plan ahead. It is also consistent with timelines already adopted by Hawaii and California.
SolarWakeup: How is Washington going to get there?
Jay Inslee: That will be determined through thoughtful implementation of the policy by individual utilities. We expect renewables, energy efficiency, energy storage, demand response, and further regional grid integration to all play a role.
SolarWakeup: What percentage would you say will be solar?
Jay Inslee: Because electricity system planning is conducted on a utility-by-utility basis, we do not have an estimate for how much solar will be developed.
SolarWakeup: Do you have any concerns about the aggressiveness of your goal?
Jay Inslee: No. Many utilities will reach the standard before 2045.
SolarWakeup: Do you have the backing in the legislature to make your goal a reality?
Jay Inslee: Yes. We have support in both the House and the Senate and the bill is a 2019 legislative priority of the environmental priorities coalition.
SolarWakeup: What else would you like the rest of the country to know about Washington’s commitment to 100% clean electricity?
Jay Inslee: Because of our legacy of clean, renewable hydroelectricity, and history of leadership in energy efficiency, Washington is uniquely positioned to meet this standard. We are also at a critical juncture to replace legacy coal power plants in the region, and we believe most of the transformation will happen by 2030.