Since this topic affects all renewable energy activities in the US, it’s important to have current information and links to the right state information. Even if you’re not a policy wonk, it’s good to review those programs that affect your projects.
Here are some major sources of information at different levels of detail. All worth reviewing.
One new twist is the introduction of Clean Energy Standards(CES), which extends the discussion.
Difference between RPS and CES:
A renewable portfolio standard (RPS)—adopted by 20 states and the District of Columbia—requires a certain percentage of a utility’s electricity to come from renewable energy sources.
A clean energy standard (CES)—adopted by nine states—requires a certain percentage of a utility’s electricity to come from low- or zero-carbon emitting energy sources.
Difference discussed here:
https://www.c2es.org/document/renewable-and-alternate-energy-portfolio-standards/
Overview of RPS
Good article from the US Berkeley Labs, though one year old, on the overview:
https://emp.lbl.gov/publications/us-state-renewables-portfolio-clean
The Climate Exchange Site also is useful: https://climate-xchange.org/
Has a useful dashboard and even webinars.
Detailed Information Sources
The grandaddy of renewable policy information is the “Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency” at https://www.dsireusa.org/
from the NC State Clean Energy Technology Center.
Has great, detailed coverage of programs within each state, including energy efficiency programs.
Better yet, it covers US Federal Programs. One can drill down on 30 different programs that even cover tax deductions.
