Energizing Rhode Island
Mark Green
Posted August 19, 2016
Without any oil or natural gas of its own, Rhode Island ranks 49th among the 50 states in energy production. Thus, virtually all of the energy Rhode Island uses must come from somewhere else. In 2015, 95.2 percent of Rhode Island’s net generation of electricity was fueled by natural gas, which makes sufficient infrastructure – pipelines and gas-fired power plants – an imperative.
Click on the thumbnail to open a two-page energy infographic for the Ocean State.
On infrastructure, the state currently is debating whether to allow construction of a 1,000-megawatt gas-fired plant in Burrillville – a project whose necessity from the standpoint of reliable energy supply and consumer benefits has earned support from the state’s Democratic governor and also organized labor. Gov. Gina M. Raimondo:
“I'm for the health and safety of every single Rhode Islander. I'm for a good environment for every single Rhode Islander. I'm for green energy ... But I'm also for keeping energy prices as low as possible for the people of Rhode Island.”
For the benefits of America’s energy revolution to reach all Americans, critical infrastructure needs must be met. In New England, that broadly means building natural gas pipelines and other facilities so that the region’s residential and commercial customers aren’t at the mercy of demand spikes during peak heating months.
To sustain and grow domestic energy’s benefits, the U.S. must choose a policy path that fosters safe and responsible development. On Page 2 of the infographic, a chart shows how a pro-development path will increase energy output, grow jobs and the economy and benefit individual households. At the same time, a policy path characterized by regulatory constraints will negatively impact these areas.
Energy is essential for virtually every aspect of our daily lives. It powers national, state and local economies, gets us to work and goes into products we rely on for health and comfort. Safe, responsible energy development here at home is linked to national security as well as Americans’ individual prosperity and liberty – in Rhode Island and all the 50 states of energy.
About The Author
Mark Green joined API after a career in newspaper journalism, including 16 years as national editorial writer for The Oklahoman in the paper’s Washington bureau. Previously, Mark was a reporter, copy editor and sports editor at an assortment of newspapers. He earned his journalism degree from the University of Oklahoma and master’s in journalism and public affairs from American University. He and his wife Pamela have two grown children and six grandchildren.