Clean energy and efficiency spared in Rhode Island budget process
Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee’s efforts to slash funding for energy efficiency and roll back renewable energy targets appear poised to fail after the legislature advanced the state budget on Tuesday evening.
The spending bill would still require the state to hit 100% zero-emission power by 2033, but expands the definition of clean energy to include existing nuclear and hydro resources. In 2027, up to 14% of the energy supply can come from these sources; this proportion will increase every year until it hits 20% in 2033.
“The most important win for the environmental community was just maintaining the timeframe for the renewable energy standard to 2033,” said Emily Koo, senior policy advocate and Rhode Island program director for the nonprofit Acadia Center.
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