Gov. Donald L. Carcieri, R-R.I., recently introduced to the state legislature Senate Bill (S.B.) 943, which would require the state's general assembly create a Rhode Island Power Authority (RIPA).
According to the governor's office, RIPA would spearhead the development of renewable energy sources and ensure that Rhode Islanders are the primary beneficiaries of the electricity those sources produce. The new agency would also be authorized to trade the electricity generated by these projects in order to ensure that it is made available to Rhode Island consumers.
"Over the last year and a half, my administration has worked hard to make Rhode Island a leader in the development of renewable sources of energy," Carcieri says. "The creation of a Rhode Island Power Authority would represent a critical step in that process."
Sen. Dennis Algiere, R-Del., is the lead sponsor of the bill on the governor's behalf.
