Over the past few weeks, we’ve been digging into the General Election on November 6th and which initiatives have our attention this year. Nevada Question 6, the Renewable Energy Standards Initiative, is one that we can’t wait to hit the polls to support. Here’s everything you need to know about Question 6, and why we’re voting YES.
What is Question 6?
Question 6 reads: “Shall Article 4 of the Nevada Constitution be amended to require, beginning in calendar year 2022, that all providers of electric utility services who sell electricity to retail customers for consumption in Nevada generate or acquire incrementally larger percentages of electricity from renewable energy resources so that by calendar year 2030 not less than 50 percent of the total amount of electricity sold by each provider to its retail customers in Nevada comes from renewable energy resources?”
What Does It Mean?
The Renewable Energy Standards Initiative would require electric utilities to acquire 50% of their electricity from renewable resources by 2030. Currently, Nevada is on track to have 25% Renewable Energy by 2025. A YES on Question 6 would propel Nevada forward as a leading generator of Renewable Energy in the US (currently Oregon is leading the charge with 45% of their energy coming from renewable resources. Renewable Energy built in Nevada create jobs for Nevadans, and a yes on Question 6 projects help to keep the long-term energy costs down in the future by providing energy at low operating expenses and without the price volatility of fossil fuels.
We all know that renewable energy reduces emissions and pollution. Renewable energy is also one of the most cost competitive forms of energy. Many wind, hydro, geothermal, and solar energy agreements are less expensive over the operating lifetime compared to older traditional forms of energy.
Current Federal Policies encourage investment in renewable energy and Nevada, and the state can benefit from having more renewable energy projects built in the state.
Is Question 6 Related to Question 3?
The goal of Question 3 is to replace the existing energy market. Many who support Question 6 oppose Question 3 because of the uncertainty that a new energy market in Nevada will slow development on new renewable energy projects. A yes vote on Question 6 would ensure that regardless of the outcome of Question 3, Nevada will be a leader in renewable energy development. 50% of renewable energy goals support innovation in developing and delivering low-cost energy that benefits Nevada residents.
If Question 6 passes on November 6th, Nevada will become a cleaner environment. Doctors have stated that cleaner air will reduce asthma, heart disease, lung disease, and even cancer– especially for children and seniors. Additionally, renewable energy is a more affordable resource and will benefit Nevadans with energy cost savings as well.
Regardless of where you stand, it’s important to hit the polls tomorrow. If you’re not registered to vote, be sure to do so online now.