Several U.S. states are working hard to transition to cleaner energy systems, the Georgetown Climate Center said in a report Monday, presenting examples of successful programs. “In the last three years, the U.S. power sector has seen a dramatic increase in electricity generation from renewable energy sources and less-polluting fossil fuel sources, as well as an increase in energy savings due to energy efficiency investments. These actions have dramatically reduced emissions of carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants, diversified our fuel mix, enhanced resilience, and provided opportunities for energy cost savings,” the report says.
The report cites 19 states, including: Nevada, which was on the first states to adopt a renewable portfolio standard; Tennessee, where a massive clean energy power purchase agreement is being explored; and Minnesota, which required its largest utility, Xcel Energy, to produce 30 percent of its power from renewable sources by the end of the decade. “States are taking action for different reasons—some states prioritize diversifying energy resources and cutting energy waste, while others focus on reducing carbon pollution to address climate change,” the report says.
