Washington, Oregon, and South Dakota are among the latest states to encourage renewable energy development and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Washington Gov. Chris Gregoire recently approved the Climate Change Framework/Green-Collar Jobs Act. Oregon and South Dakota will offer tax incentives for renewable-energy equipment and wind energy facilities, respectively.
The new Washington law requires quantifiable reductions in greenhouse gas pollution and a comprehensive plan by year’s end to achieve the required reductions. Beginning in 2010, the largest greenhouse gas polluters will be required to count and report their emissions. In Oregon, Gov. Ted Kulongoski signed a bill that allows tax credits of up to $40 million for manufacturers of renewable energy equipment. In Oregon, Gov. Mike Rounds approved House Bill 1320, which provides tax incentives for wind-energy facilities and the transmission lines that serve them.
