80.28.260 - Adoption of policies to provide financial incentives for energy efficiency programs.

Adoption of policies to provide financial incentives for energy efficiency programs.

(1) The commission shall adopt a policy allowing an incentive rate of return on investment (a) for payments made under RCW 19.27A.035 and (b) for programs that improve the efficiency of energy end use if priority is given to senior citizens and low-income citizens in the course of carrying out such programs. The incentive rate of return on investments set forth in this subsection is established by adding an increment of two percent to the rate of return on common equity permitted on the company's other investments.

     (2) The commission shall consider and may adopt a policy allowing an incentive rate of return on investment in additional programs to improve the efficiency of energy end use or other incentive policies to encourage utility investment in such programs.

     (3) The commission shall consider and may adopt other policies to protect a company from a reduction of short-term earnings that may be a direct result of utility programs to increase the efficiency of energy use. These policies may include allowing a periodic rate adjustment for investments in end use efficiency or allowing changes in price structure designed to produce additional new revenue.

[1996 c 186 § 520; 1990 c 2 § 9.]

Notes: Findings -- Intent -- Part headings not law -- Effective date -- 1996 c 186: See notes following RCW 43.330.904.

Effective dates -- 1990 c 2: See note following RCW 19.27.040.

Findings -- Severability -- 1990 c 2: See notes following RCW 19.27A.015.