North Carolina House Votes for Competitive, Clean Energy Future

(Raleigh, NC – June 8, 2017) Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) today applauded the North Carolina House of Representatives for passing the Competitive Energy Solutions Act with overwhelming bipartisan support. Also known as House Bill 589, this legislation aims to encourage the development of more affordable, clean, and reliable energy throughout the state, while creating a number of new competitive market opportunities for clean energy businesses, as well as greater choice and access to clean energy for customers.

“While we have reservations about some elements in the bill, EDF believes that – taken in total – the Competitive Energy Solutions Act represents an important step toward North Carolina’s clean energy future. We hope the Senate will take swift action to enact this bill. Doing so will further secure a favorable economic climate for clean energy business growth, continue to attract investment in new renewable energy development across the state, and deliver on the public’s demand for cleaner, healthier, safer energy sources.”

HB 589 is the result of almost a year of extensive stakeholder negotiations among renewable energy groups, consumer advocacy organizations, and utilities. The bill will now move to the state Senate where it must be approved before heading to the governor’s desk.

• David Kelly, Manager, North Carolina Political Affairs, EDF Clean Energy Program