RGGI Program Overview
The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) is a partnership of 11 states working together to cut carbon pollution from power plants. Launched in 2005, it was the first program in the nation to set a mandatory limit or cap on carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Under the program, fossil fuel power plants producing more than 25 megawatts of electricity must buy allowances for every ton of CO₂ they release.
The proceeds generated from the sale of the allowances go back to the participating states. In Rhode Island, the proceeds are mainly invested in energy efficiency and renewable energy. The allowable use of auction proceeds in Rhode Island is governed by RI gen. laws §23-82-6.
To learn more about the initiative visit RIDEM’s RGGI page or RGGI Inc.
What is RGGI Inc.?
RGGI, Inc. is a nonprofit organization that helps run the RGGI program. It provides administrative and technical support, oversees the allowance auctions and trading market, and manages the reporting of emissions reductions across of RGGI states.