Updated to reflect passage of New Large Data Center Load Policy in July 2026 Across the country, the growth of artificial intelligence (AI) is contributing to a rapid increase in data center development. This trend raises questions about the financial and environmental costs involved and who bears those costs. City… [ Keep reading ]
When you flip a switch, the room lights up instantly. This simple action works every time because of a large network of dams, power lines, substations, and workers who operate around the clock. Every time you pay your City Light bill, you help fund this system. We want to be… [ Keep reading ]
Saturday, March 21, marks National Renewable Energy Day. It gives us a perfect opportunity to celebrate our region’s deep connection to renewable power. City Light has a long history of environmental stewardship. In fact, we’ve proudly been carbon neutral for more than two decades. As we look toward the future,… [ Keep reading ]
A landmark agreement with Tribes and federal agencies to guide the future of the Skagit River Hydroelectric Project (Skagit Project) will be referred to Seattle City Council for review and consideration next week. “This marks a major milestone in the Skagit relicensing process,” said Mayor Katie Wilson. “The settlement is an expression… [ Keep reading ]
On January 26, 2026, the City of Seattle (City) filed an Initial Study Report (ISR) with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). This is a required step in relicensing the South Fork Tolt Hydroelectric Project. What is the ISR? The ISR is a formal progress report on the 24 studies the City is conducting as part of the South Fork Tolt Hydroelectric Project relicensing process. These studies include some that were required by FERC in their Study Plan Determination and others agreed to between the City, Tribes, and other Licensing Participants (LPs). The ISR… [ Keep reading ]
As a public, not-for-profit utility, Seattle City Light makes decisions for the long-term benefit of our customers and the communities we serve. Effective January 1, 2026, you will see the previously approved average rate increase of 5.4% start appearing on your bill. Residential customers can anticipate an increase of around $4… [ Keep reading ]
The Seattle region has been getting hotter and drier each summer, making it harder to meet energy needs. At City Light, we plan ahead to make sure there’s enough electricity by adapting to challenges like reduced snowpack, longer heatwaves, and fluctuating energy prices. Here’s how we’ve been adapting to these… [ Keep reading ]
Historically, March 21st is that day that we celebrate National Renewable Energy Day. It’s an excellent time to highlight Seattle City Light’s commitment to sustainable power. Let’s see how renewable energy is shaping our future. The national energy landscape While the world strives toward growing its renewable energy resources, on… [ Keep reading ]
Hydropower is the backbone of Seattle’s electricity. It has played a vital role in powering communities across the Pacific Northwest for more than a century.
This week, Seattle City Council adopted Seattle City Light’s new 2025-2030 Transportation Electrification Strategic Investment Plan (TESIP). This updated plan identifies City Light’s priorities as we continue investing in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure, the grid, and our communities. We are committed to investing in Puget Sound’s transportation system to… [ Keep reading ]
