Document Type

Article

Abstract

The debate as to whether the United States should adopt a national renewable portfolio standard (“RPS”) has persisted for years. During this time, the states, largely through their adoption of state-level RPSs, have laid the foundation needed for the creation of a viable renewable energy market. Proponents of a national RPS argue that its enactment is a necessary step toward solving the energy-related challenges faced by the United States. This Commentary Article concludes that a national RPS— arriving at this late stage—may do more to slow the momentum toward the development of a renewable energy industry. The Article describes the current state of the renewable energy market, including the growth of a rather robust market for renewable energy certificates. The Article also considers the practical impact a national RPS may have on the renewable energy market, as well on the policy objectives of the states that have implemented an RPS.

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