WA HB2416

Washington's only waste-to-energy facility would receive no-cost emission allowances under the state's cap-and-invest program, starting January 1, 2027, based on a March 2024 Department of Ecology study finding it emits fewer greenhouse gases than landfill alternatives.

The facility would receive 100% of its emissions covered through the second compliance period, dropping to 97% in the third compliance period, then declining by 3% each subsequent compliance period.

Allowances would be allocated based on the prior year's reported emissions, with annual reconciliation after verified emission reports are received to adjust for any over- or under-allocation.

The facility must comply with federal laws and regulations and meet state air quality standards to qualify for the no-cost allowances.

Electric utilities would be prohibited from receiving separate allowances for electricity produced by the waste-to-energy facility that already receives no-cost allowances under this act, preventing double-counting.