Gov. Markell signs clean energy bills

The measures are designed to increase the states dependence on renewable energy and create more jobs.

Delaware Governor Jack  Markell (D) signed a package of bills designed to create jobs and speed the state’s transition to renewable sources of energy.

One measure Markell signed into law expands the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard to require 25% of Delaware’s energy to come from renewable sources by 2025.  The bill also includes the Delaware Electric Cooperative and municipal electric companies under the standard for the first time.  The measure is also designed to protect consumers by limiting rate hikes.

Markell says the package of bills will help the economy right now by creating jobs, and will help the environment in the long run.  “These bills make it clear that our state intends to play an important role in the clean energy economy of the future.  We can strengthen our economy, improve our environment and innovate at the same time.”

Markell also signed a bill updating the Green Energy Fund law.  It will allow Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary Colin O’Mara more flexibility in providing funds for the installation of renewable energy systems.  O’Mara says, “The average fossil fuel investment only creates a couple jobs per million dollars you invest, where renewables can create between five and ten jobs, and so every dollar we invest in these areas can really create a lot of jobs across the entire economy.”

The Governor also signed a measure that allows property owners to install ground-based solar arrays on residential property that are at least one half acre without being restricted by conditions of deeds or contracts.