California, Washington State and Québec agree to link carbon markets, driving greater cuts in pollution and more investment in clean energy

SACRAMENTO — California, Washington state and Québec have signed an agreement to link their Cap-and-Invest programs in a unified carbon market.

“This is a crucial next step to expand North America’s largest economy-wide carbon market, pioneered by California in partnership with Québec. By joining forces, Washington, California and Québec can cut climate pollution faster while driving greater investment in affordable clean energy. Climate change does not stop at borders, so it requires pragmatic partnerships like this for solutions to take root and take off. We look forward to working with leaders in California and Washington to complete the rulemaking work ahead for a unified carbon market to launch next year. The need for regional action has never been greater. As the Trump administration rips away pollution protections and expands our dependency on volatile energy sources, a huge leadership gap must be filled. We are eager to see more bold climate leadership come from subnational leaders.”

• Caroline Jones, Manager for Energy Transition & Carbon Markets, Environmental Defense Fund