Around the States

Midwest Feed-In Tariff

Wisconsin may soon have a state-wide feed-in tariff (FIT) for renewable energy, according to a report by Paul Gipe on Wind-Works.org.

The FIT is part of comprehensive climate change legislation proposed in both houses of the state government, and supported by Governor Jim Doyle. Gipe says FITs also are being considered in Minnesota, Michigan, and Indiana, but Wisconsin offers the greatest chance for passage. 

Thout the Public Service Commission would design many aspects of the FIT, it is expected to be differentiated by technology and set rates based on cost of generation plus a "reasonable rate of return."

Massachusetts Unveils New Solar-Rebate Programs

Following the success of its Commonwealth Solar rebate program, which ran out of funding in October, Massachusetts plans to institute two new programs.

Boston Business Journal reports that the new programs will use a combination of ratepayer funds and stimulus money to create incentives. Commonwealth Solar II and Commonweath Solar Stimulus are both expected to begin in late January.

California’s Renewable Energy Pipeline

Renewable energy projects under development in California have a total planned capacity of nearly 70 gigawatts (GW), Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger said on Tuesday. 

Reuters reported that the 244 proposed projects include solar, wind, geothermal, biomass and hydro technologies. About 50 of these intend to begin construction in 2010. 

Governor Schwarzenegger earlier this year issued an executive order that mandates a goal of one-third renewable power by 2020. 

In Related News… 

Quebec is the first Canadian province to adopt California’s tough auto emissions standards. New rules go into effect in January. Read additional coverage at the link below.