Section 23-82-1. – Short title.

§ 23-82-1. Short title. This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Implementation of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Act.” History of Section.P.L. 2007, ch. 119, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 206, § 1.

Section 23-82-2. – Legislative findings.

§ 23-82-2. Legislative findings. It is hereby found and declared by the general assembly as follows: (1) Scientific findings indicate that the increase in greenhouse gas emissions, including carbon dioxide, is accelerating the natural greenhouse effect resulting in changes in the Earth’s climate; (2) Climate changes pose serious health risks to humans, as well as […]

Section 23-82-3. – Definitions.

§ 23-82-3. Definitions. As used in this chapter: (1) “Allowance” means an authorization to emit a fixed amount of carbon dioxide; (2) “Board” means the renewable energy coordinating board established pursuant to chapter 42-140.3. (3) “Council” means the energy efficiency and resources management council; (4) “Department” means department of environmental management; (5) “Office” means the […]

Section 23-82-4. – Regional greenhouse gas initiative implementation.

§ 23-82-4. Regional greenhouse gas initiative implementation. (a) The department shall, in consultation with the public utilities commission, the office, council, and board, through rules and regulations, establish the state’s rules for participation in RGGI. (b) The department’s rules and regulations for participation in a carbon cap and trade program shall be designed to meet […]

Section 23-82-5. – Sale of allowances.

§ 23-82-5. Sale of allowances. (a) The department shall provide in its regulations that one hundred percent (100%) of all allowances issued under the program in the state of Rhode Island shall be sold. A de minimus portion of allowances may be set aside to support the voluntary renewable energy provisions of the regional greenhouse […]

Section 23-82-6. – Use of auction or sale proceeds.

§ 23-82-6. Use of auction or sale proceeds. (a) The proceeds from the auction or sale of the allowances shall be used for the benefit of energy consumers through investment in the most cost-effective available projects that can reduce long-term consumer energy demands and costs. Such proceeds may be used only for the following purposes, […]

Section 23-82-7. – Exemption from taxation.

§ 23-82-7. Exemption from taxation. Notwithstanding any provisions of the general or public laws or regulation to the contrary, the division of taxation shall grant a permanent exemption from any and all applicable charges or assessments made against the proceeds from the auction of allowances pursuant to this chapter. History of Section.P.L. 2007, ch. 119, […]