Puget Sound Energy appoints advisory group for clean energy plan
Puget Sound Energy (PSE) has established an Equity Advisory Group to advise on the company’s Clean Energy Implementation Plan (CEIP).
The CEIP is the utility’s four-year roadmap that outlines clean electricity targets, actions, and programs. The advisory group will help the company develop the plan from an equity and community interest standpoint. Specifically, the group will consider ways to equitably distribute benefits and reduce burdens, so that clean electricity is affordable, accountable, and accessible.
“As we make this clean energy transition, it’s not lost on me that historically many groups have faced barriers to accessing clean energy because of cost, awareness, and systemic inequalities,” Puget Sound Energy President and CEO Mary Kipp said. “Clean energy is important, but so is ensuring that everyone can afford it and that all voices are heard and included in the transition.”
The advisory group is made up of 13 members from community-based organizations in PSE’s service area. These inaugural members will serve for at least one year, with membership evolving over time.
“I’m pleased to be a member of the Equity Advisory Group as a voice for seniors, disabled adults, and caregivers,” Island Senior Resources Executive Director Cheryn Weiser, one of the inaugural members of the group, said. “Island County has a large and growing population of seniors that are often overlooked in planning efforts. Additionally, I have a long-standing commitment to clean energy and see it as an imperative. I’ve learned about PSE’s efforts in planning for a clean energy future and the importance of integrating the mandates in CETA with planning for an equitable future for all. The underlying issues are complex and will require innovative strategies and tactics to assure success.”
“We’re looking forward to working in partnership with this diverse group and listening, learning, and working together to build equity into our electric energy efforts,” Kipp said.
