Connecticut could expand definition of renewable generation

In the coming nine months, regulators in Connecticut will hold discussions to expand the definition of renewable energy, which would put the focus on cleaner, cheaper and more reliable sources of electricity, the Hartford Business Journal reports.

According to the media outlet, the expanded definition would be especially favorable for hydropower, which Governor Dannel Malloy is an outspoken proponent of.

"The big breakthrough idea here is to try to expand renewables while bringing costs down," said Dan Esty, commissioner of the state Department of Energy & Environmental Protection.

A new definition would update Connecticut's renewable portfolio standard, which began in 2005 and calls for the state to generate 27 percent of its electricity from three different renewable sources by 2020. The new objectives would effectively lower greenhouse gas emissions throughout the states, provide subsidies to renewable energy development companies and spur more research on renewables.

All these together would help Connecticut lower its electricity rates even further, and force utilities to better compete with retail energy providers. Already, the state has successfully implemented energy deregulation laws that allow residents to search for the best electricity rates.