Emissions Standard

Policy description:

Some states have created programs that drive greenhouse gas emission reductions either in certain sectors of the energy industry such as electricity generation, or economy-wide, through the application of cap and trade programs. For example, under a cap and trade construct, a state, or a group of states might require a certain percentage reduction in carbon emissions from 1990 levels by 2050. This reduction will be achieved by the distribution of annual emission allowances that decrease to the point the standard is met in 2050. Other states may establish a portfolio emissions standard that reduces over time and implement it through the Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) process at the utility commission, or establish a maximum allowable rate of emissions per unit for commission approval. For more information, see the full policy brief.

Download Full Policy Brief View Policy Component Questions

1. Does the state have a GHG emissions target?
2. Is the GHG emissions target set by state statute?
3. Does the state's emissions performance standard or cap apply to an individual sector's (e.g., electric) GHG emissions?
4. Does the state's emissions performance standard or cap apply to multiple sector's GHG emissions?
5. Is the state an active member of a regional GHG initiative?
6. Has the state adopted or is the state in the process of adopting California's LEV or ZEV program?