The renewables portfolio standard requires that states develop plans to generate renewable energy. There are four main areas of focus, which are Nevada, California, Connecticut, and New York. Each state has its own rules and regulations regarding renewable energy generation. These are discussed in greater detail below. The standards require that states identify eligible generation resources in addition to renewable energy resources. Some states are exploring incentives to encourage the construction of nuclear power plants, even though nuclear energy isn't usually considered a renewable resource. Nuclear electricity is not generally considered to be a renewable resource, even though it is virtually carbon-free. These state policies are often referred to simply as clean energy targets or emission free electricity targets. They do not include renewable portfolio standards.
California
California Renewables Portfolio Standard, (RPS) is an initiative that promotes clean, renewable energy. RPS is designed increase the percentage of renewable energy within the state's electric supply. Investor-owner utilities, small utilities, multijurisdictional utilities must produce at least 33% of electricity from renewable resources by 2020. The goal is to achieve sixty percent by 2030. It helps stabilize rates and makes the electricity grid more reliable.
Nevada
In 1997, Nevada adopted the Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS). The standard was later amended to higher standards as technology improved. It is intended to decrease dependence on fossil fuel-fired electricity plants and increase renewable energy in the electricity supply. The change in electricity supply can therefore be viewed as a positive for the environment, public health and energy costs. Nevada's renewable energy is a broad range of energy sources that utilities can tap to meet customer demand.
Connecticut
The Renewables Portfolio Standard (RPS) is a mandate for energy providers in Connecticut to obtain a specified percentage of their electricity from renewable sources by 2020. The RPS currently requires retailers to obtain 20% of their energy from renewable resources. The state is aiming for 40% renewable energy by 2040. A state-wide plan must be developed to promote the development and deployment renewable energy resources. In Connecticut, the goal of meeting the RPS is quite ambitious.
New York
New York State Renewables Portfolio Standard aims to increase renewable energy inclusion in an electric utility's portfolio. This goal aligns with the state's Energy Plan which aims at generating 2,400 MW offshore wind by 2030. New York utilities must produce 12.5% of their electricity using renewable resources by 2021, and 10% by 2018, according to the RPS. The RPS also requires utilities create demonstration parks for renewable energy.
Puerto Rico
The state legislature of Puerto Rico has passed a bill requiring utilities to meet a renewables portfolio standard of at least fifty percent by 2050. California, Hawaii, Washington, D.C., all have passed similar bills to help them achieve their 100% renewable energy goal. High costs associated with fossil fuels have been a problem for the island. The governor will sign the new law. The bill has two main purposes: to reduce the island’s impact on its environment and to lower its 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 competitive suppliers as well as electric companies that provide Standard Offer Service (SOS). Every year, electricity suppliers file a Compliance Report with the Commission to ensure that they are meeting the renewable obligation. This report is useful for consumers to make informed decisions about their energy needs. Maryland should be concerned about this.