Rural Clean Energy Economics and Community Engagement

Starting in December 2023, CETI worked with Ross Strategic and Industrial Economics, Inc. on a Rural Clean Energy Economics and Community Engagement Study and Report for the Washington State Department of Commerce.

The study’s purpose was to increase understanding among rural communities, representative interests, government agencies, and policymakers about the potential opportunities and impacts of renewable energy development in rural communities throughout Washington. It included economic analysis and community engagement processes.

The final report was submitted to Commerce in October 2024 and was presented to the Legislature in November 2024. Findings were synthesized into eight recommendations for the Legislature to consider in future clean energy policies:

• Strengthen local involvement in clean energy siting and project development processes to ensure that rural communities are informed and have a meaningful role in the decision-making process.
• Ensure increased rural community benefits and mitigate potential harm from clean energy projects.
• Safeguard and enhance the quality of life in rural communities as clean energy projects are developed.
• Improve transparency in the planning, development, and operation of clean energy projects.
• Explore an alternative taxation approach for large clean energy projects.
• Improve communication about sales taxes and clarify expectations about payback timelines for developer rebates.
• Increase transparency of economic and financial data reporting.
• Improve documentation of federal and state incentives.