Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI)
What is RGGI?
The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) is a cooperative effort among the states of Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Vermont, to cap and reduce power sector carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
How does RGGI Work?
The program establishes a regional budget (cap) for CO2 emissions and each state's allocation of CO2 allowances under the budget. RGGI is composed of individual CO2 Budget Trading Programs in each participating state and these programs require electric power generators with a capacity equal to or greater than 25 MWe (megawatt electrical), to surrender a tradable CO2 allowance for each ton of CO2 they emit. Through quarterly allowance auctions, allowances are purchased and States invest the proceeds from the auctions into energy efficiency, renewables, and clean energy programs. Additional information on the investment of proceeds can be found on the Investment of Proceeds webpage. In Rhode Island, the Office of Energy Resources, with guidance from RIDEM, determines the allocation and distribution of RI’s RGGI auction proceeds.
What is Program Review?
Regular, comprehensive program review has been a key factor in the success of the RGGI program. It has enabled the RGGI states to periodically take stock of program successes, as well as potential areas for improvement. The participating states have conducted two comprehensive program reviews in 2013 and 2017.
What’s Happening Now?
The third program review results were announced on July 1, 2025. The RGGI states agreed to strengthen the regional CO2 emissions cap through 2037. For additional detail on the updates, please visit the Program Review page.
What is RGGI Inc.?
The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation which provides technical and administrative services to the Participating States. The RGGI website is a comprehensive clearinghouse for this regional program. The design and benefits of the program, auction-related information, program review information and general news can all be found on the RGGI website.
Which Rhode Island power plants participate in RGGI?
- Manchester Street Power Station
- Rhode Island State Energy Center
- Ocean State Power
- Tiverton Power
Rhode Island Power Plants Map
Additional Resources
- Rhode Island RGGI Regulations:
- RGGI 101 Factsheet
- RGGI Inc. Website
- RGGI Project Series
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Questions? Contact Dena Gonsalves at (401) 537-4377 or email DEM.AirRGGI@dem.ri.gov