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Natural Gas Decarbonization

Contact

Policy Staff

policy@utc.wa.gov
 

Resources

The 2021 legislature directed the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) to conduct a study on energy decarbonization impacts and pathways. This study will explore various scenarios for reducing emissions from Washington's electric and natural gas systems. The end result of this project will be a report due to the legislature by June 1, 2023. 

The UTC is committed to an open and transparent process throughout this project. Information about how to engage on this project and provide feedback will be posted to this webpage and the U-210553 docket page.

Timeline

June 6, 2022 - Decarbonization Pathways Engagement Plan

June 1, 2023 - Final report due to the legislature 

Upcoming Events

TBA

Past Events

  • May 27, 2022 - Energy Decarbonization Pathways Engagement Meeting - The UTC held a kick-off meeting to inform participants how to get involved and provide input. The meeting went over current energy use and emissions in the state, and the project timeline. 

      Download the Agenda.

      Download Meeting Slides.

      View the Recording

Background

The UTC contracted with Sustainability Solutions Group (SSG) to support the UTC with examining decarbonization pathways with privately owned energy utilities in Washington state. 

Goals:

  • How natural gas utilities can decarbonize;
  • The impacts of increased electrification on the ability of electric utilities to deliver services to current natural gas customers reliably and affordably;
  • The ability of electric utilities to procure and deliver electric power to reliably meet that load;
  • The impact on regional electric system resource adequacy, and the transmission and distribution infrastructure requirements for such a transition;
  • The costs and benefits to residential and commercial customers, including environmental, health, and economic benefits;
  • Equity considerations and impacts to low-income customers and highly impacted communities; and
  • Potential regulatory policy changes to facilitate decarbonization of the services that gas companies provide while ensuring customer rates are fair, just, reasonable, and sufficient.