Gov. Gregoire Convenes Energy Leaders at Summit

Press Release

Gov. Gregoire Convenes Energy Leaders at Summit

Gov. Chris Gregoire today addressed business and community leaders in the energy industry and discussed the opportunities for American Reinvestment and Recovery act funding and how a transition to a clean energy economy supports her vision for the state's robust economic development.

"Washington state has the innovators and the track record to attract substantial federal investment and partnerships for clean energy development and deployment" said Gregoire. "Washington can and must lead the way to a green economy. A green economy creates sustainable jobs and protects our environment for future generations."

The governor convened this energy summit to provide business and community leaders from around the state, ranging from public and investor-owned utilities, researchers and regulators to research institutions an opportunity to hear the latest about ARRA funding. The summit also examined ways to advance Washington state's transition to a new clean energy economy.

Topics discussed included seeking grant funding for Smart grid technology, renewable energy and storage, energy efficiency products, service and financing models, worker training, and the state energy program.

While at the summit the governor signed Substitute Senate Bill 5921 that establishes a temporary leadership collaborative to help guide the state's clean energy efforts.

There is approximately $180 million in ARRA energy investment opportunities for Washington state for a wide range of energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Part of the summit was developed to refine a strategy for the $60 million discretionary portion of the state funds. In addition, tens of billions more will be made available throughout the nation as competitive grants.

"The federal government's energy stimulus investments are a unique opportunity to accelerate the transition of our state's energy system toward cleaner, renewable and cost-effective resources," said Rogers Weed, the new director of the state's Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development. "Washington State is already a leader in clean energy production and this meeting begins a new effort to build on that leadership."

"Washington has always been a hotbed of innovation, cutting-edge ideas, and world-class products," added Gregoire. "Collaboration will only serve to grow our state's green energy research and development."

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