The Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) by law requires our utilities to include a minimum percentage of qualifying renewable energy in the electricity they provide. Massachusetts is one of 29 states with an RPS requirement. Eligible renewable energy resources include wind, solar, anaerobic digestion, and small hydro, and must have been built since 1997. This promotes investment in new clean energy generators.
We need to raise the RPS 3% per year!
By current Massachusetts law, the RPS increases by 1% per year. The private electric utilities have reached a total of 12% clean electricity in 2017 (municipal electric utilities are currently EXEMPT from RPS requirements). But this is not enough to meet the Commonwealth’s emission reductions commitments enacted in the 2009 MA Global Warming Solutions Act.
A recent analysis by Synapse Energy Economics Inc revealed more than 2% per year increase is required to drive new development beyond our current trajectory.
…and here’s the really good news: Accelerating the RPS by 3% per year would –
- Create 45,000 jobs by 2030 while reducing power plant emissions by 71%
- Encourage investment in renewable energy projects as the need for them is assured
- Stabilize energy prices by protecting us from the price fluctuations of fossil fuels
Let your legislators know you support increasing the RPS at least 3% per year!