Utilities
The Northwest Hasn’t Learned the Lessons of WPPSS (“Whoops”)
How overreliance on one grid study could drive a fossil fuel comeback in the Northwest.
Who Owns a Utility Matters Less for Climate Than the Rules They Play By
Advocates can focus on fast-tracking policies that are already working well elsewhere.
Ending Subsidies for New Gas Hook-Ups Can Save Cascadians Millions
Line extension allowances are on their way out, and regulators can finish the job.
Washingtonians Will Soon Enjoy Cleaner Heating and Cooling Options
HB 2131, to allow thermal energy networks, unanimously passed in the 2024 legislative session. It’s a win for consumers, the climate, pipeline workers, and electric grids.
How Governor Inslee Can Rebalance Washington’s Utility Decarbonization Bill
HB 1589 favors investors over ratepayers—and state climate goals. A section veto would go a long way to fix the bill.
Without Gas, What Business Models Could Gas Utilities Pursue?
Several examples exist, and Cascadian policymakers can encourage shifts while setting guardrails to protect customers.
It’s Time for Cascadia to Start Pruning the Gas System and Electrifying Whole Neighborhoods
Early efforts in California, Colorado, and New York offer lessons to get started.
It’s Time to Stop Subsidizing New Gas Pipes
Regulators across Cascadia should end line extension allowances, the subsidies ratepayers finance that expand utilities’ pipeline infrastructure.
Is There a Future for Gas Utilities? It Could Be Heating and Cooling Your Home (from the Ground)
"Thermal energy networks" are being piloted in New York and Massachusetts. Cascadia should be next.
Environmental Justice Advocates Lead Oregon to 100 Percent Clean Electricity Future
A just transition is picking up legislative wins in Salem.