RI Energy Seeking to Trim Efficiency Incentives and Rebates for Residents

PROVIDENCE — Environmental groups are warning state officials that proposed cuts to Rhode Island’s energy efficiency programs will raise utility bills, spark inflation, and put residents out of work.

Rhode Island’s energy efficiency programs offer residents a buffet of incentives and rebates aimed at saving on their home energy use. They range from purchasing energy-saving major appliances to weatherizing households to conserve energy.

Emily Koo, Rhode Island program director for the Acadia Center, told council members the budget cuts outlined in the draft plan were a disservice to Rhode Islanders, and that state officials should push back against cuts.

“The original three-year plan cuts in the second draft are a 30% budget reduction,” said Koo. “It will eliminate an estimated $92 million in benefits to all of Rhode Island.”

Koo and the Acadia Center also noted each energy efficiency plan was required to conduct a cost-benefit analysis for each program, and that neither the gas nor the electric program had shown to cost more than the benefits received from the program.

To read the full article from ecoRI, click here.