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State renewable energy policies in 2025 focus on implementation rather than bold new laws
States are shifting their attention to enforcing existing clean energy laws, with fewer new legislative breakthroughs expected due to political gridlock and economic pressures.
Dan Gearino reports for Inside Climate News.
In short:
- States with Democratic control remain key players in renewable energy efforts, but no new "100% carbon-free" laws are expected in 2025.
- Texas, despite its Republican trifecta, remains a key state to watch, balancing renewable energy growth with strong fossil fuel interests.
- California continues to face challenges modernizing its grid and navigating opposition from the solar industry over new regulations.
Key quote:
“The Legislature could unwittingly be causing major grid problems by slowing down solar and storage.”
— Doug Lewin, energy policy consultant
Why this matters:
With federal support for clean energy at risk, state policies play an increasingly important role in addressing climate change. Effective implementation of clean energy laws can either bolster or weaken national progress toward carbon reduction goals.
Related: Inslee sees state-level climate efforts as resilient against federal shifts
