National Renewable Electricity Standard Design Features

This WRI policy brief advocates for the implementation of a national renewable electricity standard (RES) in the United States to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and position the U.S. as a global leader in renewable energy technologies.

• The World Resources Institute recommends that a national renewable electricity standard (RES) incorporate several specific design features: eligibility requirements aimed at reducing GHG emissions and minimizing negative environmental impacts, a long-term and legally binding target applicable to all electricity suppliers, the national sourcing of renewable energy certificates, and the ability for state RES targets to exceed the national target.
• Implementing a national RES would provide various benefits to the U.S., including reductions in CO2 emissions and energy bills, improved air and water quality, and the creation of jobs and economic opportunities in under-served communities. For businesses, it would offer lower energy costs, reduced price volatility, and new investment opportunities.
• While a national RES does not currently exist, the 110th Congress is considering its establishment. Currently, renewable electricity standards (also known as renewable portfolio standards) have been implemented by 25 states and the District of Columbia.

APA

World Resources Institute (n.d.). National Renewable Electricity Standard Design Features. https://www.wri.org/research/national-renewable-electricity-standard-design-features

Chicago

World Resources Institute. National Renewable Electricity Standard Design Features. n.d. https://www.wri.org/research/national-renewable-electricity-standard-design-features.

Wikipedia

{{cite report |author=World Resources Institute |title=National Renewable Electricity Standard Design Features |url=https://www.wri.org/research/national-renewable-electricity-standard-design-features |access-date=17 August 2026 |via=Climate Insights Directory}}

BibTeX

@techreport{worldresourcesinstitutendnational, author = {{World Resources Institute}}, title = {{National Renewable Electricity Standard Design Features}}, institution = {World Resources Institute}, url = {https://www.wri.org/research/national-renewable-electricity-standard-design-features}, urldate = {2026-08-17}, note = {Indexed by Climate Insights Directory} }