Governor Rell:  Energy Programs to Share

in $14 Million from Emission Allowance Auctions

Auctions Main Revenue Component of Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative

            Governor M. Jodi Rell today announced she is allocating $14 million the state earned from the regional auctions of emission allowances to state, municipal, private and nonprofit agencies that promote energy conservation and help fund clean and renewable energy programs.

The auctions are the key component of the landmark Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiatives (RGGI), a consortium of Northeastern 10 states working together to cut air pollution, improve energy efficiency and develop clean energy. Under Governor Rell’s leadership, Connecticut was one of the first states to join the historic program.

 “We can all take pride knowing Connecticut leads the nation and the world in our clean air efforts,” Governor Rell said. “The revenue from these auctions will further strengthen and expand our efforts to reduce our dependence on fossil fuel and limit these dangerous emissions. Ultimately we will leave a cleaner, healthier environment for future generations.”

The regional agreement sets a cap on the amount of carbon dioxide power plants can emit and creates a “cap-and-trade” program to allow power- generating companies and others to buy “allowances” to cover dangerous greenhouse emissions.

The auctions, held in September and December of 2008 and March 2009, generated $14 million for the state.

The Governor said the revenue will be distributed to the following:

·        Department of Environmental Protection ($1.05 million) – to administer emission reduction programs in the state and develop a strategy to mitigate the effects of climate change. It includes assessing the impact on infrastructure, public health and natural resources.

·        The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund ($3.28 million) – offers financial incentive and education program that encourage homeowners, businesses and others to use renewable energy.

·        Connecticut Light & Power ($7.3 million), United Illuminating ($1.82 million), Connecticut Municipal Electric Energy Cooperative ($609,748) – energy conservation and efficiency programs.

The Governor’s announcement comes the same week as the federal government took initial steps to regulate greenhouse gases on a national level. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said Friday that carbon dioxide and five other gases threaten public health and welfare by triggering global climate change.

“With our sound environmental stewardship, Connecticut is well ahead of the curve for reducing carbon dioxide emissions,” Governor Rell said. “We have a strong framework in place, laws on the books and resources to help us meet our goals.”