Hartford
– After two years of debate, the legislature passed an omnibus energy bill that
promotes energy efficiency, increases Connecticut’s use of clean, renewable
energy, and cuts global warming pollution.
“This energy bill takes a big step towards a cleaner and
more efficient energy future for Connecticut,” said Christopher Phelps,
Environment Connecticut Program Director. “We applaud the passage of provisions
continuing Connecticut’s commitment to cutting global warming pollution and
investing in energy efficiency and clean, renewable energy.”
The
legislation requires the Rell administration to fully implement the Regional
Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) to achieve a 10% cut in global warming
pollution from power plants. The bill includes a provision supported by
environmental and consumer advocates requiring the administration to auction
100% of global warming pollution permits under the RGGI program, and use the
revenue for programs such as energy efficiency that benefit electric consumers.
Earlier this year, after pressure from owners of polluting power plants, the
administration proposed weak regulations to implement RGGI by auctioning less
than 100% of the permits, and giving a portion away to some power plants. This
would have given the power plants a windfall profit.
“Selling
100% of global warming pollution permits under RGGI, and using the proceeds to
reduce energy consumption is the best way to cut global warming pollution while
also helping consumers control costs,” said Phelps. “The legislature did the
right thing by rejecting the Rell administration’s attempt to weaken
Connecticut’s commitment to cutting global warming pollution from power
plants.”
Other
provisions in the energy bill promote clean energy and energy efficiency in
Connecticut. These include:
- * Extending the state’s
Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) to require utilities to provide at
least 20% of Connecticut’s electricity from clean, renewable sources like
wind and solar by the year 2020.
- * Requiring utilities to
purchase all cost-effective energy efficiency and similar measures before
expensive and polluting new generation resources.
- * Incentives and sales
tax exemptions for solar power, efficient furnaces, air conditioners, and
cars getting over 40mpg.
“With
this bill, the legislature maintained Connecticut’s leadership in the fight to
stop global warming,” concluded Phelps. “The energy bill implements a strong,
effective RGGI program, increases the use of clean, renewable energy, and
brings Connecticut closer to a more secure, cheaper, cleaner new energy
future.”
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