FSEC adopts resolution honoring former member, approves two solar transfer orders

The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council adopted a resolution recognizing former council member Elizabeth Osborne’s service and approved two transfer‑of‑control orders for utility‑scale solar projects during its July 15 meeting.

Resolution 362: Chair Kurt Beckett read the resolution commending Elizabeth Osborne’s service (appointment effective 08/01/2023; service through 05/27/2026). The council adopted the resolution after a clerical amendment to correct the service length. Elizabeth Osborne thanked the council and invited engagement on the Northwest Power and Conservation Council’s 9th power plan.

Columbia Solar — Council Order No. 363: Keith Kanata, deputy director of siting and compliance, briefed the council on the informational hearing and public record required by WAC 463‑66‑030 and told the council no public comments were received after the informational meeting. Counsel Pamplin moved to approve Council Order No. 363 (amending site certificate language to effect an upstream indirect transfer of control and technical amendments) and the motion was seconded. Chair Beckett called the question; the order was approved (chair stated the vote was unanimous among the permanent council).

Goose Prairie Solar — Council Order No. 364: Staff reported a recent site visit and the completion of the informational hearing required by WAC 463‑66‑030. A motion to approve Council Order No. 364 (upstream indirect transfer of control of the site certificate) was made and seconded; the council called the question and approved the order (chair indicated consensus/unanimous on the permanent council).

Procedural notes: Staff said no public comments were received on either transfer following the informational hearings; documentation for both orders is posted to the FSEC website. No roll-call vote tallies by name were read into the record at the action votes; chair Beckett described the Columbia Solar action as unanimous among the permanent council members present.

What’s next: Staff will post supporting orders and update the project records; if public comment is later received that triggers additional review, staff will notify the council.