Department of Ecology News Release - October 4, 2017

Updated greenhouse gas standards proposed for power plants

Public can review and comment through Nov. 14

OLYMPIA  – 

The Washington Department of Ecology is proposing updates to its greenhouse gas emission rate for power plants in order to align with state law and other regulations.

Currently, this rule affects 10 facilities and can potentially affect any new facilities that meet specific criteria outlined in Ecology’s Greenhouse Gas Performance Standard rule. These power plants can emit up to 1,100 pounds of greenhouse gases per megawatt hour of power generated.

Ecology is proposing to align its standards with a lower emission rate already required by the Washington Department of Commerce. In 2013, Commerce lowered their emission standard to 970 pounds of greenhouse gases per megawatt hour of power generated.

The 10 power plants would have to begin complying with the lower emission performance standard when they change ownership, undergo modifications, or sign new long-term contracts to purchase power or power plants.

Other changes in Ecology’s proposal include testing calculations and technical clarifications.

The public is invited to review and comment now through Nov. 14.

To learn more about the environmental review of this proposal and submit formal comments online or in person at an upcoming public hearing, see the information below.

Review documents

  • Ecology’s website
  • At the Washington Department of Ecology, 300 Desmond Drive SE, Lacey

Public hearing

  • When: 2 p.m., Nov. 7
  • Where: Washington Department of Ecology, 300 Desmond Drive SE, Lacey
  • Via webinar: Register

Submit comments by Nov. 14

  • Submit comments online
  • Mail to Caroline Sun, Department of Ecology, Air Quality Program, P.O. Box 47600, Olympia, WA 98504-7600

Contact information

Camille St. Onge
Communications manager
360-407-6932