Governor Inslee Proposes Limits on Carbon Pollution from State’s Major Emitters; Part of Historic Commitment to Advance Clean Energy in Washington State

OLYMPIA, Wash. (December 17, 2014) – Governor Jay Inslee today unveiled a historic package of climate and clean energy initiatives that includes, for the first time, a firm and enforceable limit on carbon pollution from the state’s major emitters. The pollution fees generated would fund public transit, transportation infrastructure, basic education, and invest in Washington’s disadvantaged communities. The proposal also includes a new Clean Energy Fund to deploy renewable energy and energy efficiency solutions and a suite of clean transportation measures to put Washington on course to comply with state law that requires a reduction of carbon pollution to 1990 levels by 2020 and 25 percent below 1990 levels by 2035.

Statement from Noah Long, Senior Attorney for the Natural Resources Defense Council:

“By putting firm limits on carbon pollution, Governor Inslee’s proposal would simultaneously protect public health and future generations and spur clean energy investments and jobs across the state. The legislature should move this important plan forward.”

Statement for from Simon Mui, Senior Scientist:

“Washington’s commitment to its electric vehicle market and supporting public transit shows tremendous leadership. Going forward, the state should continue progress toward a Clean Fuels Standard. These solutions will help expand transportation choices, cut pollution, and reduce Big Oil’s stranglehold on the market. Rather than fighting clean energy policies through fake consumer front groups – as recently exposed in the press – the oil industry should do its fair share and start investing in clean energy.”