HARTFORD — Three New England governors are teaming up to launch a clean energy initiative. The governors of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut have already taken the first step in this clean energy initiative by formally releasing a request for proposals (RFP). The effort would expand renewable energy and natural gas capacity.
“By working together with neighboring states we can make the most efficient use of our resources to attract new clean energy projects at the lowest possible cost for ratepayers while advancing our interests in reducing emissions of greenhouse gases,” Governor Malloy said. “The joint procurement process opens the possibility of procuring large-scale projects and transmission to deliver clean energy on a scale that no single state could secure on its own.”
Here’s how it would work. Electric companies in all three states would collaborate with state agencies to begin a competitive bidding process to seek proposals from suppliers of clean energy – which includes, wind, solar, small hydro, biomass, fuel cells and other non-carbon emitting sources.
Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker initiated the process and said the effort is part of a push to reduce energy costs, strengthen grid reliability and increase the region’s economic competitiveness.
A representative with Eversource Energy, which is the new name for Northeast Utilities, CL&P and other affiliates, welcomed the states’ agreements.
Under the request for proposals, there is a 30-day comment period that will end on March 26, 2015. After comments have been heard and considered the states will issue a final request for proposals this spring.
