Renewable energy is power generated from naturally replenished resources, such as sunlight, wind, rain, snow, tides and geothermal heat.
In Washington state, hydroelectric power is the dominant renewable resource, accounting for approximately two-thirds of the total electricity produced, according to the Energy Information Administration.
Non-hydroelectric renewable energy sources – wind, biomass and solar – currently contribute about 3 % of Washington’s total electricity generation.
The state’s wind energy production has increased significantly since 2000, ranking as one of the top wind energy states in the nation.
Washington is also a substantial producer of energy from wood and wood waste, accounting for approximately 3% of U.S. production.
Some renewable energy technologies – especially solar and wind – are criticized for being intermittent or unsightly, yet the renewable energy market continues to grow. Climate change concerns coupled with high oil prices and increasing government support continue to fuel renewable energy development, legislation, incentives and commercialization.