Nevada governor signs bill that increases RPS to 50% by 2030

Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak signed Senate Bill 358 into law April 22 raising the state’s renewable portfolio standard (RPS) to 50 percent by 2030, up from the previous requirement of 25 percent by 2025.

“Renewable energy is a major cornerstone of my economic development plan, and this bill will put Nevada back on the path toward renewable energy leadership on a nationwide level and continue to bring well-paying jobs to our communities,” Sisolak said. “Today, Nevada sent a message to the country and world that the Silver State is open for business as a renewable leader, and our commitment to growing our clean energy economy transcends party lines.”

The Nevada House passed the bill by a vote of 21 to zero on April 16, while the House voted 40 to zero in favor of the legislation on April 19. Sisolak signed the bill into law on Earth Day.

Biomass, biogas, geothermal, solar, wind and some types of hydropower are among the types of renewable energy sources that are qualified to fill the requirements of the state’s RPS.

Nevada became the second state in the nation to establish an RPS in 1997. Information released Sisolak’s office indicates SB 358 allows the state to reclaim its clean energy leadership role by having one of the highest RPS standards in the country.