National Policy — policy in action
Rhode Island
- H5851 / 2023
This proposed law mandates that new residential building construction include solar power capabilities that can meet at least 80% of the building's annual energy needs.
- H7277 / 2022
Designers can help Rhode Island actualize its ambitious goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2033.
- S2700 / 2022
The Green Buildings Act stipulates that public infrastructure projects should be built, renovated, and located using high standards of water and energy efficiency that are in line with current LEED certifications or an equivalent green building standard.
- H5 445A / 2021
The Act on Climate requires that Rhode Island develop a plan to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions throughout the economy and built environment via benchmarks of 45% below 1990 levels by 2030, 80% below 1990 levels by 2040, and net-zero by 2050. Moreover, this law creates a citizen suite cause of action against the government if it fails to actualize its decarbonization goals, which means citizens can hold the government accountable to their commitment.
Resources
Plans, reports, green banks, and contacts to explore:
- SO 339 / 2021
The design community can refer to this piece of legislation for new energy and water efficiency standards for appliances ranging from commercial dishwashers and cooking appliances to bathroom fixtures such as showerheads.
- RIRSC FINAL 02-14-18 / 2018
Rhode Island Residential Stretch Code is a voluntary code that provides guidance on green building construction of Zero-Energy Ready Homes (ZERH). These certified homes are designed to achieve zero net energy consumption annually, primarily with the help of on-site renewable energy systems.
- RGI / 2009
Participating states (Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont) of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) agree to a regional cap on CO2 emissions, reducing emissions and raising money to invest into local communities, such as clean energy programs, energy efficiency, and bill assistance to local businesses and communities.
How to Participate
To help advance climate action –– check if your local, state, or national government is proposing new policies, codes, or regulations that champion decarbonization. Local, state, national, and international climate policy tracking tools are included below for easy access.
Join a climate action advocacy group in a well-informed, professional organization to leverage their experience and resources. Consider these respected organizations: Achieving Net Zero / AIA Advocacy / ASLA Advocacy / Carbon Leadership Forum Advocacy / USGBC Advocacy
