On March 12, the state of Washington passed a Clean Fuels Standard (H.B. 1110) that would institute a low carbon fuel program by 2020. The program is designed to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation fuels 10 percent below 2017 levels by 2028 and 20 percent below those same levels by 2035. Supporters share that the program will play a significant role in meeting the state’s overall greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals.
“Washington is poised to become a national leader in production of clean, renewable fuels like biodiesel once this bill is signed into law,” said Rep. Joe Fitzgibbon who sponsored the legislation into the Washington House of Representatives. “Job growth and emissions reductions can go hand in hand, and by passing HB 1110, the House has taken a strong stance in favor of growing rural jobs and cleaning up Washington’s air.”
To meet state GHG emissions reduction targets, Washington State will need to increase use of fuel alternatives such as biodiesel and renewable diesel. Historically, biodiesel consumption in Washington State has been relatively low compared to the rest of the nation. With implementation of a Clean Fuels Standard, however, that would change quickly.
“Implementation of this program would bring Washington in line with other renewable fuels champions on the West Coast — such as Oregon, California, and British Columbia, Canada — creating a unified market for clean fuels on the West Coast,” said NBB Director of State Governmental Affairs Shelby Neal. “This is a great step forward for the environment, consumers, and green industry in Washington State.”
