Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative

Rhode Island

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Summary of Investment Plan

Rhode Island, through the Office of Energy Resources in consultation with the Department of Environmental Management and the Energy Efficiency and Resources Management Council, has proposed rules for the distribution of RGGI auction proceeds to consumer benefit programs. The proposed Plan for the Allocation and Distribution of Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Auction Proceeds" (March 2009) directs:

• 60 percent of proceeds to expand existing, successful, and cost-effective energy efficiency projects and programs supported by the Least Cost Energy Efficiency Utility Account
• 40 percent of proceeds to support new partnerships, research and financing options that can drive energy efficiency program development and broaden energy savings for Rhode Islanders

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Invsetment Highlights

As of July 2010, Rhode Island has invested nearly $4 million in the Least Cost Procurement Energy Efficiency Utility Account at National Grid.  Funds are being used to supplement and expand a wide variety of energy efficiency programs, including:

• Home energy audits
• Energy Star lighting and appliance rebates
• High-efficiency heating
• Water heating and controls incentives
• Energy Star central air conditioning rebates
• Energy efficiency educational programs

At the household and business level, these programs save consumers as much as 25 percent off their energy bills. Statewide, these programs generate $3.73 in electricity cost savings for every $1 invested.

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More Information

For more information on energy efficiency investments in Rhode Island, see:

• National Grid Electric and Gas Energy Efficiency Programs - 2010 Year-End Report
• RGGI Auction Proceeds Report from National Grid - 2010
• The Rhode Island Energy Efficiency and Resources Management Council (EERMC) - Opportunity Report - Phase 1
• EERMC - Energy Savings Targets - September 1, 2010
• State Press Releases on the Investment of Auction Proceeds

For general information on Rhode Island's participation in RGGI please consult state regulations.