H.R.3096 - Renewable Energy Certificate Study Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.3096, the Renewable Energy Certificate Study Act of 2025, directs the Comptroller General to study federal agencies' use of renewable energy certificates (RECs). The study will evaluate the impact of REC demand on renewable energy investments and assess federal agencies' progress in meeting clean energy goals. The bill also requires a report to Congress with findings and recommendations for improving the impact of the REC market on federal renewable energy investments.
Expected Effects
The bill's primary effect will be the creation of a comprehensive study on the use of RECs by federal agencies. This study will inform future policy decisions related to renewable energy procurement and compliance. Ultimately, the goal is to optimize federal investments in renewable energy generation.
Potential Benefits
- Provides data-driven insights into the effectiveness of RECs in promoting new renewable energy projects.
- Identifies potential cost savings and efficiencies in federal agencies' renewable energy procurement.
- Informs Congress on how to improve the impact of the REC market on federal investments.
- Could lead to more effective strategies for meeting renewable energy targets.
- Promotes transparency and accountability in federal agencies' use of RECs.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- The study itself may incur costs for the government.
- The study's findings may not lead to immediate policy changes.
- The focus on RECs might overshadow other potentially more effective renewable energy strategies.
- The study could reveal inefficiencies or shortcomings in current federal agency practices, leading to potential criticism.
- The timeline for the study and subsequent report to Congress is not specified, potentially delaying action.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to regulate commerce and spend for the general welfare, which can be interpreted to include promoting renewable energy. The bill's focus on studying and improving federal investments in renewable energy falls within these constitutional powers.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).