Washington Revised Code Title 87. Irrigation § 87.03.013. Development of hydroelectric generation capabilities--Legislative finding, intent--Limitation

The legislature finds that a significant potential exists for the development of the hydroelectric generation capabilities of present and future irrigation systems serving irrigation districts. The legislature also finds that the development of such hydroelectric generation capabilities is beneficial to the present and future electrical needs of the citizens of the state of Washington, furthers a state purpose and policy, and is in the public interest. The legislature further finds that it is necessary to revise and add to the authority of irrigation districts to obtain the most favorable interest rates possible in the financing of irrigation district projects which serve the agricultural community and hydroelectric facilities. It is the intent of the legislature to provide irrigation districts with the authority to develop these hydroelectric generation capabilities in connection with irrigation facilities. Further, it is the intent of the legislature that the development of hydroelectric generation capabilities pursuant to *this 1979 act not become the sole purpose or function of irrigation districts in existence on May 14, 1979, nor become a major function of irrigation districts created after that date. Nothing herein shall authorize an irrigation district to sell electric power or energy to any municipal corporation not engaged in the distribution of electric power or energy.