RPS programs require utilities to generate a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources like wind and solar power. The goal is to increase the amount of renewable energy in the grid, which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. The first RPS program was enacted in Iowa in 1983, and since then, more than 30 states have followed suit.
According to a recent report from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), RPS programs have been highly successful in promoting renewable energy generation. The report found that RPS programs have helped to more than double the amount of renewable energy in the U.S. since 2000. In addition, these programs have contributed to the creation of over 200,000 jobs in the clean energy industry.
The momentum for RPS programs is driven by a confluence of factors. First, the declining cost of renewable energy technologies like wind and solar power has made them more competitive with fossil fuels. In many cases, renewable energy is now cheaper than natural gas or coal.
Second, there is growing concern about climate change and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. States with RPS programs are able to meet their climate goals by increasing the amount of renewable energy they use.
Third, there is strong public support for renewable energy. A recent survey by the Pew Research Center found that 77% of Americans support expanding the use of renewable energy. This support is bipartisan, with 84% of Democrats, 73% of Republicans, and 74% of independents in favor of expanding the use of renewable energy.
As a result of this growing momentum, several states have recently increased their RPS targets or implemented new programs. For example, California recently passed legislation that requires utilities to generate 100% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2045. New York has a similar goal, aiming to generate 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
In addition, several states in the Midwest and Southeast have recently implemented RPS programs. Iowa, for example, has set a target of generating 105% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2022. This means that the state will generate more renewable energy than it uses, making it a major exporter of clean power.
The National RPS Movement is gaining momentum across the United States, as more and more states set aggressive targets for renewable energy generation. This movement is helping to reduce emissions, create jobs, and fight climate change. With strong public support and declining costs for renewable energy technologies, the future looks bright for the growth of renewable energy in the U.S.[ad_2]