Model state electric decarbonization statute based on 2019 legislation enacted in Washington State, which commits that state to a retail electricity supply entirely free of greenhouse gas emissions by 2045.
Adds reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the Public Utilities Commission’s (PUC) statutory obligations, and requires utilities to reduce the energy burden on justice communities.
Phases out the use of fossil fuel energy in retail electricity service, and requires reporting on the impact of clean energy requirements and opportunities for justice communities.
Makes Rhode Island the ninth state to pass legislation requiring comprehensive GHG neutrality by 2050.
Sets statewide net-zero by 2050 target, strengthens protections of frontline communities, and would permit localities to enact natural gas bans.
Requires the state to reduce greenhouse gas pollution to 26% below 2005 levels by 2025. Emissions would need to be 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and 80% below by 2050.
Provides that by January 1, 2030 80% of electricity consumed in the State must come from renewable resources and by January 1, 2050 100% of electricity consumed in the State must come from renewable resources
Requires two large utilities to close all carbon-emitting power plants by 2045 and 2050, and to acquire 3,100,000 megawatts of energy storage capacity.
In June 2015, Hawaii enacted HB 623, a law requiring all electric power to come from renewable sources by 2045, effectively phasing out fossil fuels from electricity production.
In May 2019 the Department of Environmental Conservation adopted new CO2 limits that will effectively ban coal plants in 2020.