For years, Nevada prospered as a clean energy leader, but now the state’s renewable energy and energy efficiency policies need an update. The state’s renewable portfolio standard, for example, no longer drives development of new renewable energy projects. And energy efficiency programs now save only half the energy they saved at their peak.
Nevada should act now to reap the benefits of an advanced clean energy economy, including jobs, historic low costs, and reduced emissions. Since they have no fuel costs, renewable resources and energy efficiency can also protect customers from price volatility, often producing lifetime cost savings.
To boost Nevada’s clean energy economy, NRDC recommends that the state require electricity providers to serve 50 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by 2030, with a goal of 80 percent by 2040, and that it require providers to strengthen efficiency programs in order to save the equivalent of 1.5 percent of annual sales. This analysis demonstrates that Nevada can reinvigorate its clean energy economy and cut its reliance on fossil fuels at little to no cost.
Related Resources
EPA Announces GGRF Awards
A Resource for Energy-Burdened Communities
