Clean Peak Standards

Given the growth in renewable energy, policymakers are now considering how complementary policies may enable states to further incentivize clean energy growth. Clean Peak Standards are intended to encourage clean resources during periods of peak energy demand. Similar to a Renewable Portfolio Standard, they do so by requiring retail electric providers to supply a minimum percentage of energy delivered to customers during peak hours derived from clean energy sources. This issue brief presents and overview of Clean Peak Standards, including the objectives and design features of the policy, as well as steps taken by four states related to implementation of Clean Peak Standards.