What is a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS)?
A renewable portfolio standard (RPS) is a state mandate that utilities buy a certain percentage of their power from renewable sources as they are defined by the statute. The RPS typically sets up a lucrative artificial market in “green credits.” The industry is working hard to impose a national RPS.
An RPS is a policy that seeks to increase the proportion of renewable electricity used by retail customers. As of July 2008, 25 states (inclusing New York) and the District of Columbia have implemented RPS policies. In addition, six states have adopted non-binding renewable energy goals. A map of all the state RPS goals is available in a PowerPoint Slide. A PowerPoint viewer is available here.
An RPS is a policy that seeks to increase the proportion of renewable electricity used by retail customers. As of December 2009, 28 states (including New York) and the District of Columbia have implemented RPS policies. In addition, six states have adopted non-binding renewable energy goals. A map of all the state RPS goals is available in a PowerPoint Slide. A PowerPoint viewer is available here.
