WA HB1712

Expands the definition of "qualified biomass energy" to include electricity purchased by a qualifying utility from biomass facilities located anywhere in the Pacific Northwest, removing the previous requirement that the facility contribute directly to the utility's load

Amends eligibility criteria so qualified biomass energy facilities must be purchased from by a qualifying utility, located in the Pacific Northwest, and either owned by a qualifying utility or by an industrial facility directly interconnected with utility transmission infrastructure

Allows qualifying utilities to use renewable energy credits from qualified biomass facilities even if the facility ceases industrial pulping or wood manufacturing operations, provided the facility itself continues operating

Limits renewable energy credits from qualified biomass facilities engaged in industrial pulping or wood manufacturing to an amount proportionate to the industrial facility's share of the utility's annual renewable resource targets (9% by 2016, 15% by 2020)

Prohibits qualifying utilities that own qualified biomass energy facilities from transferring or selling the associated renewable energy credits to other persons, entities, or utilities