The renewables Portfolio Standard is an initiative that requires states create plans to generate electricity from renewable resources. There are four areas that are of primary concern: New York, California, Connecticut and Nevada. Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding renewable energy generation. These are discussed in greater detail below. These standards also require states that they identify eligible generation sources. Although nuclear energy does not usually qualify as a renewable resource state are considering offering incentives to invest in nuclear power plants. Although nuclear electricity is largely carbon-free and emission-free, it is not considered a renewable resource. These state policies are commonly referred to by the terms clean energy targets, emission-free electricity targets, or renewable portfolio standards.
California
The California Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS) is a program designed to encourage the use of clean, renewable energy. RPS is a program that aims to increase the use of renewable energy in California's electricity supply. It requires investor-owner utilities, small utilities, and multijurisdictional utilities to generate at least 33% of their electricity from renewable resources by 2020. The goal is to get to 60% by 2030. It reduces greenhouse gases emissions and lowers electricity costs. Additionally, it stabilizes rates and helps to ensure that the electric grid runs more reliably.
Nevada
The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS) system in Nevada was first adopted in 1997. As technology advanced, the standard was amended to meet higher standards. The goal was to reduce dependence upon fossil fuel-fired power stations and increase the proportion of renewable energy within the electricity supply. The improvement in electricity supply can be considered a positive change for public health, the atmosphere, and energy prices. Nevada's renewable power portfolio includes a range of energy sources that utilities may use to meet the demand.
Connecticut
The Renewables Portfolio Standard, (RPS) requires Connecticut energy providers to ensure that a minimum percentage of their electricity comes from renewable sources by 2020. The RPS currently mandates retailers to source 20% of energy from renewable resources. The state targets 40% renewable energy by 2040. A state-wide plan must be developed to promote the development and deployment renewable energy resources. The goal to meet the RPS in Connecticut is ambitious.
New York
The New York State Renewables Portfolio Standard is designed to increase renewable energy's share in an utility's electricity portfolio. This goal is consistent the state's Energy Plan. It aims to generate 2,400MW offshore wind by 2030. The RPS requires that New York's utility companies generate 12.5% and 10% of their electricity from renewable resources, respectively, by 2021. The RPS also requires utilities create demonstration parks for renewable energy.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico's state legislature passed a bill that requires utilities to have a minimum of fifty percent renewables portfolio by 2050. This measure joins Washington, D.C., Hawaii, California, and Hawaii in setting a goal to achieve a 100% renewable energy target before that date. It has suffered from high fossil fuel costs. After the governor signs it, the new law will go into effect. The bill aims to lower the island’s electricity costs and reduce its impact on the environment.
Maryland
Maryland's Renewables Portfolio Standard is a state requirement that electricity suppliers must meet a specific percentage of renewable energy. This standard applies to both electric companies that offer Standard Offer Service, (SOS), and competitive suppliers. Every year, electricity suppliers file a Compliance Report with the Commission to ensure that they are meeting the renewable obligation. The report can help consumers make informed choices about their energy needs. This is an important issue for Maryland.