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Landfill gas-to-energy project stalled pending PUD–Ecology discussions after governor’s office meeting
Summary
County and PUD representatives met with Ecology and the governor's office; the Public Utility District said it needs regulatory clarity before proceeding on a landfill gas-to-energy project and county staff said prior federal funding commitments have expired.
Commissioners heard an update on a landfill gas-to-energy project that has stalled while the Public Utility District (PUD) and Ecology discuss regulatory requirements and potential compliance costs.
A county speaker summarized recent interagency meetings: the PUD, Ecology and representatives from the governor’s office held talks to clarify regulatory requirements. The speaker said the PUD is concerned it may not be able to meet Ecology’s standards without incurring significant additional cost and that the PUD intends to meet with Ecology to identify what changes, if any, Ecology will make to requirements that are holding the project up.
County staff noted the county’s prior agreement with the PUD has lapsed and several federal timelines and funding commitments have expired; if the project proceeds in the future it would require a new agreement and fresh funding. One county official credited a commissioner named Bobak with arranging the meeting with the governor’s office but said the project will likely "sit there" until PUD and Ecology reach a working arrangement.
The board did not vote on the project. Staff said the county cannot compel the PUD or Ecology to change course and that new contracts or grant applications would be required for any renewed effort.
