By: DSIRE Insight Team
This past month, our team published an updated version of the Renewable and Clean Energy Standards map on the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) website. There have been several notable policy changes recently adopted by states, with some states adopting new renewable and/or clean energy standards or goals, and others expanding (or in one case, reducing) their existing standards. In some of these states, legislatures have enacted laws setting the overall requirements, while state regulators are undertaking proceedings to determine the specific means of achieving these requirements.
Renewable and Clean Energy Standards (September 2020)
Connecticut
The Governor of Connecticut issued an executive order in September 2019 requiring state regulators to develop a plan to reach a 100% carbon-free electricity sector by 2040.
Maine
In June 2019, Maine lawmakers enacted legislation expanding the state’s renewable portfolio standard to 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2050.
New Jersey
The Governor of New Jersey issued an executive order in 2018 setting out a 100% clean energy goal for 2050. In January 2020, the state released an Energy Master Plan which contains strategies for reaching this goal.
New York
In July 2019, the New York State Legislature enacted legislation expanding its renewable portfolio standard to 70% by 2030 and its clean energy standard to 100% by 2040. The Public Service Commission is required to develop regulations to meet these requirements by June 30, 2021.
Ohio
In July 2019, Ohio lawmakers enacted legislation reducing the state’s renewable energy requirement from 12.5% by 2026 to 8.5% by 2026. The legislation also removed the state’s solar carve-out.
Rhode Island
In January 2020, Rhode Island’s Governor issued an executive order setting a goal of 100% renewable electricity by 2030.
Virginia
Virginia lawmakers passed legislation in April 2020 setting 100% renewable energy requirements. The date for achieving this 100% goal varies by utility; Dominion Energy’s target date is 2045, while Appalachian Power’s target date is 2050.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s Governor issued an executive order in August 2019 calling for the state to have 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050. The order creates a new state Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy and directs this office to ensure that the goal is met. As the order does not create legal requirements for utilities, it is classified here as a goal rather than a standard.
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Learn more about renewable portfolio standards with the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency. To inquire about DSIRE Insight’s custom research and consulting, please email afproudl@ncsu.edu.