e85 Information

Connecticut Solar Power: Small State, Large Dreams and Depleted Funds

Renewable Energy World |

In Brief...

It may the nation's third smallest state, but Connecticut's electric rates are among the highest in the country. In 2009, Connecticut's average rate was more than 74% above the national average and up until the end of October, when New York officially surpassed them, Connecticut's electric rates trailed only those of Hawaii's. As a result, it was not surprising to see Connecticut make the necessary legislative changes to support cheaper renewable energy, particularly solar power. Specifically, back in 2004, Connecticut created the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund which was designed to support the statewide adoption of solar power and other renewable energy sources. Now, 6 years later, the Connecticut Clean Energy Fund is depleted and we can only hope that the state will continue to support the adoption of solar power and other renewable energy sources throughout Connecticut.. The CCEF not only educates consumers on the benefits of clean energy, but, as stated above, funds the major solar and other renewable energy incentives in Connecticut. On-Site Renewable Distributed Generation Program - Through this program CCEF has committed to adding 16.5 MW to Connecticut's renewable generating capacity by 2010. With the US solar market's projected growth of 40% each year in the coming decade and Connecticut's high electric rates, it is important that Connecticut continues its dedication to renewable technology, even with inconsistent government funding. Beyond refunding the CCEF, the next step for Connecticut is to develop their own market for Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs).

Read the entire article at Renewable Energy World...

Related Topics