Energy

The electricity sector accounts for about 25% of greenhouse gases (GHGs) emitted in the U.S. (the second largest source). This is a decrease of about 12% since 1990 due to increasing efficiency and a shift to lower and non-emitting sources of generation. Coal generates 24% of the energy in the U.S., followed by natural gas at 37%, nuclear at 20%, and renewables at 18% (all percentages as of 2019).

Issues with energy usage range from the production of electricity; its increasing use in transportation, buildings and other sectors; and related conservation and efficiency standards. Electricity production and energy efficiency are especially amenable to direct regulation and incentives by state and local agencies.

Examples of effective actions include state-wide Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPSs) and implementation of RPS portfolios by municipal utilities, Community Choice Energy programs, and investor owned utilities. Local programs and incentives include those for energy conservation, increased energy efficiency, battery storage, demand management, building electrification, and reach or stretch building codes.

Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) – a cost effective way to reduce peak demand and stimulate deployment of distributed energy resources

Description: In many locations, the cost of electricity is increasing at alarming rates. This results not only from increased demand but […]

Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) – a cost effective way to reduce peak demand and stimulate deployment of distributed energy resources Read More »

Description: In many locations, the cost of electricity is increasing at alarming rates. This results not only from increased demand but

State and Local GHG Emission Reduction Programs

Description: The global scientific community and many governments worldwide agree that global warming is caused by increased atmospheric concentrations of carbon

State and Local GHG Emission Reduction Programs Read More »

Description: The global scientific community and many governments worldwide agree that global warming is caused by increased atmospheric concentrations of carbon

Community Solar Projects

Description: Communities around the country are benefiting from access to community solar projects, a distributed solar energy deployment model that

Community Solar Projects Read More »

Description: Communities around the country are benefiting from access to community solar projects, a distributed solar energy deployment model that

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