Policy

LB483 – Provide for a climate change study and action plan

Nebraska is falling behind while other states take action. According to the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions, 33 states have released a climate action plan or are in the process of developing one. These plans reflect the individual characteristics of each state’s economy, resources, and political structure provide different opportunities for addressing climate change.

LB483 takes a fresh and practical approach for Nebraska. It proposes to take an evidence-based, data-driven, strategic approach to an action plan. It calls for a broad range of risk assessments, baselines, and benchmarks and seeks to understand the impacts on our economy, agriculture, water resources, public health, and others. It outlines a practical process that will result in solutions and opportunities in Nebraska.

LB266 - Adopt the Renewable Energy Standards

Nebraska is in need of a renewable energy standard that considers the best approach for Nebraskans. There are currently 38 other states that have renewable energy standards in place. These plans take various approaches, which provides many templates and options to consider. The perceived lift by this potential legislation is tempered by the fact the LES Administrative Board recently adopted a 100% net decarbonization goal by 2040. Additionally, the Omaha Public Power District approved a goal to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Approximately 25% of Nebraska’s energy is generated through renewable energy, primarily through wind facilities.

Establishing a renewable energy standard will support existing efforts to reduce Nebraska’s carbon footprint and spur the implementation of new solutions.

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