The renewables standard portfolio standard is an initiative that requires state governments to plan to generate energy from renewable resources. There are four main areas of focus, which are Nevada, California, Connecticut, and New York. Each state has different rules and regulations related to renewable energy generation. These standards also require states that they identify eligible generation sources. While nuclear energy is not generally considered a renewable resource in the United States, some states are looking at incentives to build nuclear power plants. While nuclear electricity is carbon-free and largely emission-free, nuclear power is not typically considered a renewable resource. These state policies are generally referred to as clean energy targets or emission-free electricity targets, not 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 utilities owned by investors, small utilities, as well as multijurisdictional utilities, to produce at least 33% from renewable energy by 2020. The goal is to achieve sixty percent by 2030. It not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also lowers electricity bills.
Nevada
The Renewables Portfolio Standard in Nevada (RPS) 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 change in electricity supply can therefore be viewed as a positive for the environment, public health and energy costs. In Nevada, renewable energy represents a diverse portfolio of energy sources that utilities can use to meet demand.
Connecticut
The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), which mandates Connecticut energy providers, requires them to procure a predetermined percentage of electricity from renewable sources. This standard is effective until 2020. The RPS currently requires retailers to obtain 20% of their energy from renewable resources. The state has a higher target, 40% renewable energy by 2040. The RPS also requires a state-wide plan to encourage the development and deployment of renewable energy resources. In Connecticut, the goal of meeting the RPS is quite ambitious.
New York
New York State Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), which aims at increasing the percentage of renewable energy within a utility's electric portfolio, is a standard that was established by New York State. This goal is in line with the state's Energy Plan, which aims to generate 2,400 MW of 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 that utilities create demonstration areas for renewable energy.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico's state legislature approved a bill to require utilities that they meet a renewable portfolio standard of at minimum fifty percent 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. The island has been struggling with high prices associated with fossil energy. The new law will take effect upon the governor's signature. The bill is aimed at reducing the impact on the island's environment and lowering the island's electricity bill.
Maryland
Maryland's Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS), is a requirement that electricity suppliers meet a certain amount of renewable energy. This standard applies to both electric companies that offer Standard Offer Service, (SOS), and competitive suppliers. In order to prove that they meet the renewable requirement each year, electric suppliers submit a compliance reporting to the Commission. The report helps consumers make informed decisions about their energy requirements. This is an important issue for Maryland.