Washington energy debate centers on clean energy deadlines, rising utility costs
A Washington policy discussion examines whether the state should extend clean-energy deadlines and give utilities more flexibility to use natural gas amid rising electricity costs. Participants also discuss nuclear power, grid modernization and the possibility of data center developers financing new power generation.
Former state Sen. Reuven Carlyle and Washington Policy Center Vice President of Research Todd Myers presented competing views on Washington's clean-energy mandates during TVW's "Inside Olympia." Carlyle supported preserving the state's climate goals while reducing permitting and infrastructure barriers, while Myers called for extending the 2030 clean-electricity deadline and allowing more natural-gas generation when reliability is at risk.
Both speakers supported faster permitting, nuclear power and measures to improve grid reliability. They also discussed data centers as potential financiers of new generation, although Carlyle emphasized their growing electricity demand and Myers questioned their current effect on statewide consumption. The discussion comes as lawmakers and utility regulators weigh affordability, reliability and the pace of Washington's energy transition.