ATS Automation, Collaborative Efficiency, Ecotope, Integrity Energy Services, McKinstry and MacDonald Miller have all joined NEEC in endorsing I-1631. We hope this FAQ will help your business understand how the initiative, if passed, might impact our industry.
What is Initiative 1631?
Initiative 1631 (I 1631) is a proposed citizen’s initiative for the November 2018 general election in Washington State. If approved by the voters, the act would establish a fee on large emitters of carbon pollution creating annual funds for investment in clean energy, healthy forests and healthy communities.
Section 1: “Investments in clean air, clean energy clean water, healthy forests, and healthy communities will facilitate the transition away from fossil fuels, reduce pollution, and create an environment that protects our children, families, and neighbors from the adverse impacts of pollution. Funding these investments through a fee on large emitters of pollution based on the amount of pollution they contribute is fair and makes sense.”
“The transition to the clean energy economy will have tremendous economic and job growth benefits. Washington’s tradition of innovation and technology development combined with the funding available under this chapter will increase economic opportunity, enhance economic and environmental sustainability, and create and support family-sustaining jobs across the state. The business community will play a critical role in leading this transition and in reducing pollution.”
Can funds go to energy efficiency investments?
Yes. One of the specific strategies in I 1631 calls for increased investments in energy efficiency.
Section 4: “Programs, activities, or projects, including self-directed investments, that increase energy efficiency or reduce carbon emissions of industrial facilities,…”
“Programs, activities, or projects, including self-directed investments, that increase energy efficiency in new and existing buildings, with a goal of creating carbon neutral buildings across the state”
How much is the carbon pollution fee?
The fee begins on January 1, 2020 at $15 per metric ton of carbon content and thereafter increases by $2 per year (plus inflation) each year until it becomes fixed when the state’s 2035 greenhouse gas reduction goal is met and the state’s emissions are on a trajectory that indicates that compliance with the state’s 2050 goal is likely.
How much could I 1631 grow the energy efficiency industry?
An analysis by the economic consulting firm ECONorthwest for the Northwest Energy Efficiency Council (NEEC) found significant job growth and economic development benefit from a 50% increase over baseline in energy efficiency acquisition in Washington State.
- Jobs increased by 6,300
- Value added GDP increased by $498 million
- Labor income increased by $371 million
How can my company help?
Step 1: Your business endorses I 1631. Make your voice heard that this initiative can create jobs and economic opportunity for the state
Step 2: Provide a business and/or personal financial contribution to the I 1631 campaign. There will be opposition to this initiative from oil and gas interests, so getting the positive messaging out about energy efficiency and other clean energy sources requires resources.
Step 3: Vote yes on I 1631.
Where can I get more information on how to support I 1631?
NEEC has endorsed I 1631 and can help you with a formal endorsement on the initiative and in making campaign contributions. Call 206-292-5592 or send an email to [email protected].
Download a copy of I 1631 here.