HB 951 Aims to Deliver on Gov Cooper’s Climate Goals, But Leaves Some Ratepayers Behind

(Raleigh, NC — Oct 5, 2021) The latest version of House Bill 951, the result of negotiations between Senate Pro Temp Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) and Gov Roy Cooper (D), passed through multiple North Carolina Senate committees today. The compromise legislation appears to be on the fast-track to move through the North Carolina legislature this week.

“House Bill 951 points North Carolina in the right direction by codifying the state’s climate goals, but falls short in delivering the kind of equitable and concrete climate solutions North Carolinians need,” said David Kelly, North Carolina State Director for Environmental Defense Fund. “It will be imperative for the Cooper administration to take an active role in ensuring strong execution and accountability to realize the pollution reductions promised.

“This bill noticeably lacks meaningful protections for low-income North Carolinians. Utility reforms must focus on advancing equity across the energy system by not only curbing harmful pollution, but also lowering costs for customers, especially among those who are spending a disproportionate share of their income on energy bills.

“It is encouraging that decision-makers are reaching across the aisle to find common ground on tackling climate change. With the clock ticking, North Carolina leaders should move expeditiously on all available solutions, including the exercise of existing regulatory authority to slash carbon pollution and spur further investment in clean energy.”