Washington 2021 State Energy Strategy: Transitioning to an Equitable Clean Energy Future

The 2021 State Energy Strategy is designed to provide a roadmap for meeting the state’s greenhouse gas emission limits. Enacted in 2020, the law commits Washington to limits of 45% below 1990 levels by 2030, 70% below 1990 levels by 2040 and 95% below 1990 levels with net zero emissions by 2050.

The path to a clean energy economy outlined in this strategy requires rethinking virtually every aspect of energy use in Washington. The state needs more efficient buildings, smarter appliances, vehicles using new sources of energy, investments in industrial processes, a stronger electricity grid and significant innovation.

Washington is known for innovation and environmental stewardship — as illustrated by its commitment to a 100% clean electricity grid. This strategy represents the next step — to find the policies and actions that will achieve the state’s climate protection goals, put it on the road to reducing emissions to net zero by 2050 and improve quality of life and economic vitality.