WILMINGTON, DE — In a significant advancement for Delaware’s environmental strategy, Governor John Carney, alongside key legislative figures and advocates, enacted a series of bills on September 5 that aim to enhance the state’s commitment to clean energy and environmental protection. The legislation, signed at the DuPont Environmental Education Center, includes pivotal measures such as Senate Bill 265 and House Bill 9, among others.
Governor Carney highlighted Delaware’s vulnerability to climate change due to its low-lying geography, emphasizing, “Delaware is the lowest lying state in the country, and we have seen climate change affecting our communities. I’m proud of the work that we have done to mitigate those impacts, reduce greenhouse gases, and find cleaner ways to generate energy. We know that the work must continue.”
Senate Bill 265, known as the Delaware Energy Solutions Act of 2024, sets the stage for integrating offshore wind energy into Delaware’s power grid, aligning with the Climate Change Solutions Act of 2023. This bill not only enhances the state’s capability to procure wind-generated energy but also facilitates the connection of renewable sources to the existing infrastructure. Senator Stephanie Hansen, the bill’s prime sponsor, remarked on the strides made, stating, “We now have a new, energized Governor’s Energy Advisory Council… We should be proud of the work we have done, but continue to make progress for our state’s renewable energy future.”
Representative Debra Heffernan praised the legislative progress, noting, “The passage of SB 265 will open the door to offshore wind energy procurement in our state. This is a monumental step toward embracing a cleaner, more sustainable future.”
Complementing these efforts, House Bill 9 mandates the transition of the state’s vehicle fleet to zero-emission vehicles by 2040, while House Substitute 2 for House Bill 13 encourages the adoption of electric vehicles through financial assistance for charging infrastructure.
These legislative efforts signify Delaware’s proactive approach to mitigating climate impacts and underscore a commitment to sustainable and equitable energy solutions. The collaboration displayed in these legislative measures is a testament to the state’s dedication to fostering a resilient and environmentally responsible future.
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