Can Massachusetts use Rhode Island as a model for change?

Can Massachusetts use Rhode Island as a model for change?  In 2016, Rhode Island passed a law to increase the state's Renewable Energy Standard to 38.5 percent by 2035.  Governor, Gina Raimondo announced a goal to reach 1,000MW of clean energy supply and double the number of energy jobs by 2020. 

If Massachusetts can follow suit, it is estimated, they will increase demand and create thousands of jobs.  NECEC is optimistic, without giving an exact percentage of long-term jobs, they are confident that the nature of new renewable construction would drive a mix of both short-term and medium-term construction and engineering jobs that continue for the 20-30 year life of projects.  According to their findings, if MA increases Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) to 3% a year and CT increases by 1.5% a year the area would create 45,000 jobs.

Jamie Dickerson, Policy Analyst at NECEC comments, "Bringing our state and regional goals for renewable demand into alignment with the policies we've undertaken to spur renewable supply is one major reason we believe the Massachusetts RPS should be increased."  The 2-3% increase of RPS for the region will directly increase the demand and therefore equalize supply and demand, correcting any imbalance.

In summary, NECEC states, " Now we simply have to update our targets for renewable energy to ensure long-term viability and stability of REC markets, which is critical for existing renewables, projects currently bidding for long-term contracts and future projects alike."