UTC seeking feedback on changes in 2025 federal laws impacting clean energy

Media contact: [email protected] or 360-664-1116 Docket number: U-250534

Commission to offer discussions around impacts of new federal policies

LACEY, Wash. - The Utilities and Transportation Commission invites the commission's regulated utilities and other interested parties to submit written comments regarding the immediate impact of new federal policy changes affecting Washington's investor-owned utilities.

The commission urges commenters to share their insights and suggestions that could improve commission processes or utility actions, especially those promoting clean energy projects. It is important to focus on initiatives that can take advantage of expiring tax credits, as timing is crucial. Your expertise is key in understanding the concern these policies may present.

This situation requires immediate attention, as federal actions pose significant risks to Washington customers. The commission is seeking clear, actionable feedback that highlights potential risks and opportunities. Your input will help us assess our processes, discover the scope of these effects, and identify potential actions to address this unique situation.

WHO

Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission

WHAT

Notice of opportunity to file written comments.

WHEN and WHERE

Starting Sept. 11, the comment period will remain open for future open meeting discussions.

You can submit written comments:

• Online in searchable .pdf format using Adobe Acrobat or similar software.
• By email at [email protected].
• By mail to P.O. Box 47250, Olympia, WA 98504-7250.
  • Send an electronic copy on a flash drive, DVD, or CD with any filed documents.
  • If you cannot send the file electronically, a mailed paper document is acceptable.

Written comments must include:

• Docket number U-250534.
• Your name, including the organization you are representing.
• The title and date of the comment or comments.

If you file comments, you will receive updates from the commission about this case. If you do not file comments but want updates, ask to be added to the mailing list for Docket U-250534 by calling 360-664-1234 or emailing [email protected].

To request translated materials, email [email protected] or call 360-664-1234.

BACKGROUND

On Aug. 7, the commission held a meeting to discuss the impacts of new federal policies on investor-owned utilities, especially the uncertainties around two tax credits: 48E (Investment Tax Credit or ITC) and 45Y (Production Tax Credit or PTC). The U.S. Department of the Treasury provided guidance on these credits shortly after, but the expiration of many clean energy tax credits was sped up by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, signed on July 4.

On Aug. 20, Renewable Northwest urged the commission to consider new ways to quickly use these tax credits, stressing the need to act fast. At a subsequent meeting on Aug. 28, Chair Rybarik stressed the urgency of capturing these benefits and encouraged utilities to propose creative ideas for the commission to review. Commissioners Rendahl and Doumit agreed.

For questions about the proceeding or notice, contact Sofya Atitsogbe, Regulatory Analyst at 360-664-1255, or [email protected], or Kathi Scanlan, Deputy Director Energy Planning at 360-664-1267 or [email protected].

The UTC is the state agency that regulates private, investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities in Washington. It is the commission's responsibility to ensure regulated companies provide safe, equitable, and reliable service to customers at reasonable rates, while allowing them the opportunity to earn a fair profit.

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Editor's note: Details about this proceeding, including comments from utilities and interested persons, can be found on the UTC's website in Docket U-250534. The clean energy incentives the commission is discussing are tax credits included in the Inflation Reduction Act.