Request for Information Hard to Decarbonize Projects

The Washington State Department of Commerce, Office of Economic Development & Competitiveness is requesting information on hard-to-decarbonize industrial projects statewide to inform the design of a future grant program, with responses due October 30, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. This is a non-binding RFI that does not obligate the state to award a contract.

Eligible respondents include local governments, federally recognized tribal governments, public and private utilities, ports, for-profit entities, academic institutions, nonprofit organizations, and state agencies. The OEDC seeks projects in energy-intensive sectors: advanced materials and metals manufacturing, aerospace and maritime components, chemical production, food processing, fuels production, and electronics manufacturing.

Respondents must provide detailed information on project costs, match funding sources, decarbonization pathways, economic and climate impacts, and community engagement plans. Projects should align with decarbonization strategies including energy efficiency, low carbon fuels, carbon capture and utilization, materials substitution, and industrial electrification. The program prioritizes projects that leverage the greatest amount of matching funds from local levies, federal sources, or private investment. The state has set a goal of directing at least 20 percent of funds to benefit vulnerable populations in overburdened communities as defined in RCW 70A.65.010.

All submitted documents become public records subject to disclosure under Washington's Public Records Act. The OEDC discourages submission of confidential or proprietary information.