America now generates twice as much electricity from the wind and the sun as it did just four years ago. RES policies have been among the most important factors in encouraging the development of renewable energy. The new report, Reaping the Rewards, documents the benefits that have already been achieved by states that have adopted renewable electricity standards.
“Arizonans are already reaping the rewards for Arizona’s leadership on clean energy,” said Magnuson. “Thanks to the renewable electricity standard, clean energy will boom in Arizona,” continued Magnuson.
Reaping the Rewards found that RES states are leading the way in renewable energy development.
• In 2006, more than two-thirds of all new renewable electric generating capacity in the United States was built in RES states.
• In 2007, renewables account for about 38 percent of planned capacity additions in RES states, compared to just 12 percent in non-RES states.
The report also found significant environmental benefits as a result of new renewable energy development. Renewable energy sources built after the adoption of state RES policies will
• reduce America’s global warming emissions by approximately 8.4 million metric tons per year, the equivalent of taking more than 1.5 million cars off America’s roads.
• avert approximately 2,100 tons of nitrogen oxide emissions, 44 tons of sulfur dioxide emissions, and 220 tons of non-methane hydrocarbon emissions each year.
• save approximately 1.2 billion gallons of water per year.
Renewable energy can play an important role in revitalizing America’s economy by creating new high quality jobs and accelerating rural economic development. RES policies play an important role in attracting manufacturing facilities by making a long-term commitment to building the market for renewable energy technologies.
“State officials across the nation deserve tremendous credit for recognizing the benefits of jumpstarting renewable energy and taking action,” said Magnuson.
In order to expand the benefits of renewable energy development, the report concludes that the United States should adopt a renewable electricity standard requiring at least 25 percent of America’s electricity to come from new renewable sources by 2025. This summer, the House passed a national RES that would establish a 15 percent requirement. The Senate also passed energy legislation this summer, but did not include an RES. The Senate can accept the House RES when the two bills are negotiated in conference this fall.
“After a decade of leadership in the states, it is time for Congress to follow,” said Magnuson. “The House has taken an important step in the right direction by passing the RES, and the Senate should join them. In addition to strong fuel economy improvements and energy efficiency provisions, no energy bill will be complete without a national renewable electricity standard,” continued Magnuson.
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Environment Arizona is statewide nonpartisan citizen-based environmental advocacy organization dedicated to protecting Arizona’s clear air, clean water, and open spaces.
