Tag Archives: Douglas County PUD

Committee passes Hawkins bill to promote hydrogen-powered vehicles

Sen. Brad Hawkins’ proposal to promote hydrogen-powered vehicles, the first Senate bill of the 2021 legislative session, is now also among the first measures to be approved by a Senate committee.

The Senate Environment, Energy and Technology Committee on Thursday approved Senate Bill 5000, which would establish an eight-year statewide pilot project for the reduction of sales tax on purchases of fuel-cell electric vehicles.

“I’m pleased that the committee passed this bill so early,” said Hawkins, who serves the 12th Legislative District. “The bill received a positive response during its public hearing, and I’m hopeful it will continue moving forward this session. The bill is off to a terrific start but still has a ways to go in the weeks ahead.”

Senate Bill 5000, which has bipartisan support and nearly 30 co-sponsors, has been referred to the Senate Transportation Committee for further consideration.

Back in 2019, the Legislature approved Hawkins-sponsored Senate Bill 5588, which authorizes public utility districts to produce and sell “renewable hydrogen.”

“The people of North Central Washington have been leaders in clean energy for decades and new state efforts to promote renewable hydrogen and zero-emissions vehicles will help us continue our innovative work,” said Hawkins. He added, “North Central Washington is in a real position to lead the state and perhaps the entire United States on renewable hydrogen use in transportation, from production, distribution, vehicles, buses, short haul agriculture, and other opportunities locally. It’s pretty exciting when you think big about it. Our region has a long and proud history of thinking big about clean energy.”

Hydrogen can be created from a process that separates the hydrogen and oxygen molecules in water. The Douglas County Public Utility District in Hawkins’ district plans to utilize its surplus hydropower to do just that, creating renewable hydrogen from excess renewable hydropower and possibly also building hydrogen fueling stations.

SB 5000 aims to extend a similar exemption on vehicle sales tax that purchasers of traditional electric vehicles receive. With the first hydrogen-fueling stations in Washington expected to be operational by 2022, the bill would allow a total of 650 vehicles to receive a 50-percent sales tax exemption in fiscal years 2023 through 2029.

Even though hydrogen vehicles are newer to the market and slightly more expensive due to having not been in mass production nationwide, they have shown tremendous promise given how quickly they refuel and the limited infrastructure required to get the fuel to the station.

Hawkins said his bill would help establish important parity between fuel-cell electric vehicles and traditional plug-in electrics.

“In our efforts to promote carbon-free vehicles, our state policies should be ‘technologically neutral’ so that we can give ourselves varied opportunities to reduce emissions and not unintentionally bias ourselves in the process,” Hawkins said. “Similar to diesel and gas, maybe there will always be multiple fuel sources for next-generation cars or maybe someday hydrogen vehicles will be the preferred choice.”

What the bill’s supporters are saying:

“We are thankful for Senator Hawkins’ leadership for renewable hydrogen. His support has created an opportunity for us to increase efficiencies at our Wells Hydroelectric Project and increase value for our customers.” – Molly Simpson, Douglas County PUD Commission President

 “The Renewable Hydrogen Alliance is proud to support the expansion of clean vehicle incentives to fuel cell electric cars just as Washington begins creating clean hydrogen from the state’s ample supply of renewable electricity.” – Ken Dragoon, Executive Director of the Renewable Hydrogen Alliance

“Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will be critical to the future of a decarbonized transportation sector. This bill is a meaningful step to ensuring the state incentivizes a portfolio approach to electrifying Washington’s transportation sector. WSHA could not be more pleased to support Senator Hawkins in this effort.” – Roxana Bekemohammadi, Executive Director of the Western States Hydrogen Alliance

“Senator Hawkins’ pilot incentive program is an important first step to help accelerate the adoption of hydrogen, fuel cell and electrification accessibility in Washington state. Paving the way for emissions-free technologies will further generate awareness, interest and acceptance in communities seeking cleaner options.” – Doug Murtha, Group Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Planning at Toyota Motor North America 

“As we work to reduce transportation emissions in Washington state, incentivizing clean energy through an increased use of hydrogen could play a significant role toward accomplishing our climate goals. I look forward to working across the aisle with Senator Hawkins on this policy, and to continue protecting our state’s incredible natural environment.” – Sen. Liz Lovelett, 40th District, D-Anacortes, Lead Co-Sponsor

Here are links to news stories or other helpful information about this bill:

Hawkins prefiles bill to promote hydrogen-powered vehicles

The first bill of the upcoming legislative session has been introduced. Following his successful effort with Senate Bill 5588 in 2019 to authorize public utility districts to produce and sell “renewable hydrogen,” Sen. Brad Hawkins has prefiled a bill for the 2021 legislative session to establish an eight-year statewide pilot project for the reduction of sales tax on purchases of fuel-cell electric vehicles. The bill so far has gained commitments of bipartisan support from nearly 20 co-sponsors.

“The people of North Central Washington have been leaders in clean energy for decades and new state efforts to promote renewable hydrogen and zero-emissions vehicles will help us continue our innovative work,” said Hawkins.

Hydrogen can be created from a process that separates the hydrogen and oxygen molecules in water. The Douglas County PUD in Hawkins’ district plans to utilize its surplus hydropower to do just that, creating renewable hydrogen from excess renewable hydropower and possibly also building hydrogen fueling stations.

Hawkins’ proposal, Senate Bill 5000, prefiled today and eligible for legislative consideration in January, aims to extend a similar exemption in vehicle sales tax that purchasers of traditional electric vehicles receive. With the first hydrogen fueling stations in Washington state expected to be operational by 2022, the bill would allow a total of 650 vehicles to receive a 50 percent sales tax exemption in fiscal years 2023 through 2029.

Even though hydrogen vehicles are newer to the market and slightly more expensive due to having not been in mass production nationwide, they have shown tremendous promise given how quickly they refuel and the limited infrastructure required to get the fuel to the station. Hawkins mentions that his bill would help establish important parity between fuel-cell electric vehicles and traditional plug-in electrics.

“In our efforts to promote carbon-free vehicles, our state policies should be ‘technologically neutral’ so that we can give ourselves varied opportunities to reduce emissions and not unintentionally bias ourselves in the process,” Hawkins said. “Similar to diesel and gas, maybe there will always be multiple fuel sources for next-generation cars or maybe someday hydrogen vehicles will be the preferred choice.”

The lead co-sponsor of the bill is 40th District Sen. Liz Lovelett (D-Anacortes). Supporters of the bill include Douglas County PUD, Renewable Hydrogen Alliance, Western States Hydrogen Alliance, and Toyota.

What the bill’s supporters are saying:

“We are thankful for Senator Hawkins’ leadership for renewable hydrogen. His support has created an opportunity for us to increase efficiencies at our Wells Hydroelectric Project and increase value for our customers.”

Molly Simpson, Douglas County PUD Commission President

 

“The Renewable Hydrogen Alliance is proud to support the expansion of clean vehicle incentives to fuel cell electric cars just as Washington begins creating clean hydrogen from the state’s ample supply of renewable electricity.”

Ken Dragoon, Executive Director of the Renewable Hydrogen Alliance

 

“Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles will be critical to the future of a decarbonized transportation sector. This bill is a meaningful step to ensuring the state incentivizes a portfolio approach to electrifying Washington’s transportation sector. WSHA could not be more pleased to support Senator Hawkins in this effort.”

Roxana Bekemohammadi, Executive Director of the Western States Hydrogen Alliance

 

“Senator Hawkins’ pilot incentive program is an important first step to help accelerate the adoption of hydrogen, fuel cell and electrification accessibility in Washington state. Paving the way for emissions-free technologies will further generate awareness, interest and acceptance in communities seeking cleaner options.”

Doug Murtha, Group Vice President of Corporate Strategy and Planning at Toyota Motor North America 

 

“As we work to reduce transportation emissions in Washington state, incentivizing clean energy through an increased use of hydrogen could play a significant role toward accomplishing our climate goals. I look forward to working across the aisle with Senator Hawkins on this policy, and to continue protecting our state’s incredible natural environment.”

Sen. Liz Lovelett, 40th District, D-Anacortes, Lead Co-Sponsor

Hawkins receives statewide PUD award for hydropower advocacy

The Washington Public Utility Districts Association (WPUDA) has recognized Sen. Brad Hawkins for his efforts and legislative leadership for PUDs throughout the state by presenting him with its 2019 Legislative Champion Award during the association’s Annual Conference Banquet at the Heathman Lodge in Vancouver last night.

“I am beyond excited to receive this award and am so thankful for the support of our public utility districts statewide,” Hawkins said. “Receiving this award is so meaningful to me, given the proud history and incredible contributions of PUDs in our area. I’m proud to be an advocate for them and the customers they serve.”

The award recognizes a member of the Washington State Legislature or Congress for leadership in pursuing passage of legislation beneficial to PUDs. In the award letter from WPUDA, Executive Director George Caan wrote: “This award recognizes your strong commitment to advocating in the 2019 legislative session for policies that enhance the ability of public utility districts to serve the needs of their communities. Your leadership as prime sponsor of Senate Bill 5588, your quick introduction to add hydropower as a qualifying renewable resource in the 100% clean energy bill, and your dedication to pursuing tax parity for hydropower as the prime sponsor and staunch advocate of Senate Bill 6012 was instrumental in paving the way for good policy that supports the foundational principles on which PUDs were created.”

“During the 2019 legislative session Senator Hawkins demonstrated a commitment to advancing good public policy that supports the ability of Washington’s public utility districts to meet the needs of the communities they serve. His work is truly deserving of the WPUDA 2019 Legislative Champion Award.” – George Caan, Executive Director of the Washington PUD Association

“Senator Hawkins is a great friend to public power and Washington state’s PUDs, as well as a skilled and trusted advocate for his 12th District constituents. He understands the complex issues we face and the value of hydropower in helping to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining reliable service and reasonable electric rates. On behalf of Chelan PUD’s Board of Commissioners and our staff and customer-owners, congratulations to Senator Hawkins.” – Steve Wright, General Manager, Chelan County PUD

“Senator Hawkins is a champion of public power! He really deserves this award. He is always looking out for his constituents and definitely has an impact in the communities he serves. We appreciate Senator Hawkins’ leadership and relentless effort to get our renewable hydrogen bill through the Legislature. Thank you and congratulations Senator Hawkins!” – Gary Ivory, General Manager, Douglas County PUD

Sen. Hawkins floor speech

Hawkins to receive Washington PUD Association “Legislative Champion” Award

The Washington Public Utility Districts Association (WPUDA) is recognizing Sen. Brad Hawkins for his efforts and legislative leadership for PUDs throughout the state.

“I was super excited when I got the call from the PUD Association,” said Hawkins, whose 12th District includes four PUDs (Chelan, Douglas, Grant and Okanogan). “PUDs provide an incredible benefit to our region with their reliable, low-cost services. Locally, our PUDs are superb stewards of public resources and top-notch organizations. I’m honored to be selected as a champion for the PUDs because standing with the PUDs is standing with the people.”

Hawkins will receive the WPUDA’s 2019 Legislative Champion Award during the association’s Annual Conference Banquet on Dec. 5 at the Heathman Lodge in Vancouver. The award recognizes a member of the Washington State Legislature or Congress for leadership in pursuing passage of legislation beneficial to PUDs.

In the award letter from WPUDA, Executive Director George Caan wrote: “This award recognizes your strong commitment to advocating in the 2019 legislative session for policies that enhance the ability of public utility districts to serve the needs of their communities. Your leadership as prime sponsor of Senate Bill 5588, your quick introduction to add hydropower as a qualifying renewable resource in the 100% clean energy bill, and your dedication to pursuing tax parity for hydropower as the prime sponsor and staunch advocate of Senate Bill 6012 was instrumental in paving the way for good policy that supports the foundational principles on which PUDs were created.”

“During the 2019 legislative session Senator Hawkins demonstrated a commitment to advancing good public policy that supports the ability of Washington’s public utility districts to meet the needs of the communities they serve. His work is truly deserving of the WPUDA 2019 Legislative Champion Award.”

  • George Caan, Executive Director of the Washington PUD Association

“Senator Hawkins is a great friend to public power and Washington state’s PUDs, as well as a skilled and trusted advocate for his 12th District constituents. He understands the complex issues we face and the value of hydropower in helping to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining reliable service and reasonable electric rates. On behalf of Chelan PUD’s Board of Commissioners and our staff and customer-owners, congratulations to Senator Hawkins.”

  • Steve Wright, General Manager, Chelan County PUD

“Senator Hawkins is a champion of public power! He really deserves this award. He is always looking out for his constituents and definitely has an impact in the communities he serves. We appreciate Senator Hawkins’ leadership and relentless effort to get our renewable hydrogen bill through the Legislature. Thank you and congratulations Senator Hawkins!”

  • Gary Ivory, General Manager, Douglas County PUD

Governor signs Hawkins’ bill allowing PUD production and sale of renewable hydrogen

Gov. Jay Inslee today signed the bill introduced by 12th District state Sen. Brad Hawkins that provides authority to the Douglas County PUD and other Washington PUDs to produce and sell a new type of clean energy. Attendees of today’s bill signing included officials from public utility districts across the state, company representatives from Toyota, members of the Renewable Hydrogen Alliance, and key legislators who supported Hawkins’ bill. 

Substitute Senate Bill 5588 authorizes PUDs to produce, distribute and sell renewable hydrogen. It also defines “renewable hydrogen” in statute as “hydrogen produced using renewable resources both as the source of the hydrogen and the source for the energy input into the production process.” The House of Representatives passed it 97-0 earlier this month after the Senate approved it 47-0 in February.

“This new law will allow our hydropower utilities to lead our state in another form of clean energy – renewable hydrogen,” said Hawkins. “Our PUDs have been leaders in clean energy for decades, and this law will allow them to continue their positive and innovative work.”

The Douglas County PUD, which requested the bill, plans to use electrolysis to separate hydrogen molecules from oxygen molecules in water to produce renewable hydrogen. Renewable hydrogen does not produce carbon emissions when it is produced or consumed.

“In the springtime, our hydro utilities have been experiencing difficulties when flows are high on the Columbia River and Northwest wind and solar facilities generate large amounts of power,” said Hawkins. “Spilling excess water over our dams can adversely impact fish, and generating additional electricity in times of oversupply can hurt us economically. Douglas PUD hopes to create hydrogen using its surplus electricity and then sell it. This bill opens the door to making that possible.”

The bipartisan legislation has 32 co-sponsors, including 16 Democrats and 16 Republicans.

Company representatives bring Toyota Mirai to the state Capitol for demonstrations

Soon after the SSB 5588 bill-signing ceremony was completed, Hawkins, Inslee, and other legislators joined PUD representatives and other clean energy advocates for a hydrogen-vehicle demonstration outside the Capitol Building. Company representatives from Toyota were on hand with their Toyota Mirai, a fuel cell electric vehicle powered by hydrogen. Other legislators, legislative staff, and PUD commissioners were able to test drive the Mirai on the state Capitol Campus throughout the day.

Legislature approves Hawkins’ bill allowing PUD production and sale of renewable hydrogen

The Legislature has approved a bill introduced by 12th District state Sen. Brad Hawkins that would give authority to the Douglas County Public Utility District and other PUDs in Washington to produce and sell a new type of clean energy.

Substitute Senate Bill 5588 would authorize PUDs to produce, distribute and sell renewable hydrogen. The House of Representatives today voted 97-0 to pass the proposal. The Senate had approved it 47-0 in February. The proposal now goes to Gov. Jay Inslee for final consideration.

“I’m excited about the opportunity for PUDs to produce and sell renewable hydrogen,” said Hawkins. “Our PUDs have been leaders in clean energy for decades, and this bill would allow them to continue to lead with another form of clean energy. Renewable hydrogen can be used as a transportation fuel as well as for other purposes.” Hawkins noted that Toyota is among numerous stakeholders interested in the bill, and the Washington PUD Association supports Hawkins’ legislation.

The Douglas County PUD, which asked Hawkins to sponsor the bill, plans to use electrolysis to separate hydrogen molecules from oxygen molecules in water to produce renewable hydrogen. Renewable hydrogen does not produce carbon emissions when it is produced or consumed.

Officials with the Douglas County PUD and Renewable Hydrogen Alliance testified in favor of the bill during its March 14 public hearing in the House Environment and Energy Committee.

“Our hydro utilities have experienced difficulties in the springtime when flows are high on the Columbia River and when wind and solar generation are significant in the Pacific Northwest,” said Hawkins. “Spilling excess water over our dams can adversely impact fish, and generating additional electricity in times of oversupply can impact us economically because we are the owners of the dams. Douglas PUD hopes to create hydrogen using its surplus electricity and then sell it. This bill would help make that possible.”

The bipartisan bill has 32 co-sponsors, including 16 Democrats and 16 Republicans.