Energy Policy receives a variety of questions from the governor, legislators, their staff, other state agencies, energy stakeholders and the news media. Responses to some of the questions are listed below. See the pages for electricity, natural gas and petroleum for specific fuel data.
Q: Have a question about energy and unsure who to ask?
A: Email us here.
Q: Need information about loans and grants for energy innovation and inventions?
A: Contact DOE EERE at http://www.eere.energy.gov/inventions/.
Q: Where can I find out about tax credits?
A: DOE and the Alliance to Save Energy (ASE) have compiled Web-based information on how consumers can reduce their federal income taxes in 2006 and 2007 by making their homes more energy efficient and purchasing fuel-efficient vehicles. Under the Energy Policy Act of 2005, consumers can save up to $500 in taxes in 2006 and 2007 by installing certain energy-efficiency upgrades to existing homes. In addition, consumers and businesses can save up to $3,400 on taxes by buying energy-efficient hybrid-electric or diesel vehicles. Although the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has not yet issued specific guidance for consumers on how to claim the income tax credits, the ASE Web pages offer the latest information based on the new energy law. The Web pages will be updated on a continuing basis as the IRS makes new details available. See the ASE press release and Web page.
Q: Can you give me information on residential energy costs?
A: Please see the FAQ Residential Energy Costs page.
Q: Where does my utility's power come from?
A: Check the fuel mix disclosure information here.
Q: How can I buy green power for my residence or business?
A: Check with your local electric utility for green power program offerings. More information on Green Power in Washington can be found the in the Green Power reports here. You can also get more information by contacting:
Bonneville Environmental Foundation
133 SW 2nd Avenue, Suite 410, Portland OR 97204
Phone 503.248.1905 or tool-free 866.233.8247
Q: What types of renewable energy are used in our state and where are they located?
A: In Washington state we are generating energy from wind, solar and soon with wave or tidal. As of November 3, 2005 wind energy had 3 operating, 3 under construction, 4 in process and one proposed site. Solar projects in the state were at 5 operating and 1 proposed. Wave or tidal energy projects have 1 proposed, with startup projected for 2006. For more information on renewables in the Pacific Northwest visit http://www.rnp.org/.
Q: How can I find out more about my utility's electricity or natural gas rates?
A: If your utility is publicly owned, either a public utility district (PUD), municipal or cooperative utility, then you should contact that utility for rate information. See information on the electricity and natural gas pages. Rates for investor-owned utilities are regulated by:
Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission
PO Box 47250, Olympia WA 98504-7250
Phone 360.664.1160
Q: What is biodiesel?
A: Biodiesel is a fuel derived from vegetable oils or animal fats. It is clean burning, biodegradable, nontoxic, and contains no petroleum or sulfur. It can be blended with petroleum diesel. It can be used in diesel engines with few or no modifications to the engine or fuel system. For more information, visit http://www.biodiesel.org/
Q: How can I find current federal energy information for Washington state?
A: Go to the Energy Information Administration site for information for Washington.
Q: What is the impact of energy costs for small businesses in Washington?
A: See the 2005 Small business energy analysis