Recent RPS Studies: Maine and Maryland

This webinar described two recent studies that examined the renewable portfolio standards (RPSs) in Maine and Maryland. Authors of the studies presented their key findings and discussed the implications.

Expanding Maine’s Renewable Portfolio Standard: Creating Economic and Environmental Benefits for Maine was produced for the Maine Renewable Energy Association by Synapse Energy Economics and Sustainable Energy Advantage. This May 2019 report assessed the potential costs and benefits of expanding Maine’s Class I RPS to 50 percent by 2030. The analysis takes into account RPS policies throughout New England, and the impact of regional market dynamics on RPS policy in Maine.

The Final Report Concerning the Maryland Renewable Portfolio Standard was produced as a result of legislation passed by the Maryland General Assembly. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources contracted with Exeter Associates to prepare the study. It assesses the performance of the Maryland RPS in terms of the amount of capacity supported, the reduction in air emissions, current and projected rate impacts, and economic development.

An audience Q&A followed the presentations.

Presenters

• Jason Gifford, Senior Director, Sustainable Energy Advantage
• Patrick Knight, Principal Associate, Synapse Energy Economics
• Rebecca Widiss, Senior Analyst, Exeter Associates
• Matthew Hoyt, Senior Analyst, Exeter Associates
• Warren Leon, Executive Director, CESA (moderator)

This webinar was presented by the Clean Energy States Alliance (CESA).