OLYMPIA — Gov. Bob Ferguson on Monday signed legislation aimed at strengthening Washington’s electric grid, expanding transmission capacity and supporting the state’s transition to a clean energy future.
Senate Bill 6355, sponsored by Sen. Victoria Hunt (D-Issaquah), establishes the Washington Electric Transmission Authority, a statewide entity designed to improve coordination, reliability and long-term planning of the state’s electric transmission system. As Washington faces rising electricity demand and an accelerated transition to clean energy, the need for modern, interconnected transmission infrastructure has become increasingly urgent.
“Washington cannot meet its clean energy goals or support continued economic growth without a reliable, modern grid,” Hunt said. “This law is about building the infrastructure that connects communities, unlocks new energy resources and ensures affordable, dependable power for families and businesses across our state.”
Under the law, the authority will work in partnership with electric utilities, tribes, labor organizations, local governments and private developers to advance transmission projects that expand grid capacity and connect new renewable energy resources. The legislation prioritizes projects that improve reliability, serve multiple regions and would not otherwise move forward without state coordination.
In addition to expanding infrastructure, the law emphasizes cost-effective and innovative approaches, including upgrades to existing lines, advanced transmission technologies and non-wire alternatives. It also establishes labor standards intended to support family-wage jobs and apprenticeship opportunities, while requiring efforts to minimize environmental impacts, reduce wildfire risk and protect vulnerable communities.
The authority will be governed by a 10-member board with expertise in utilities, clean energy, labor, finance and land use, ensuring balanced oversight and accountability. The law directs the Governor’s Office of Indian Affairs, in coordination with the Department of Commerce and the Department of Ecology, to convene federally recognized tribes to develop a statewide tribal consultation framework for electric transmission planning.
“This is a practical, forward-looking solution to one of the biggest barriers in our clean energy transition,” Hunt said. “We are creating a path to build critical infrastructure faster, more efficiently and in a way that reflects Washington’s values.”
The law takes effect June 10, 2026.
