Do you support Gov. Daniel J. McKee’s executive order mandating state regulators vet the financial costs of renewable energy and energy-efficiency programs?

PBN Staff

02/13/2026

McKeereplace — GOV. DANIEL J. MCKEE on Feb. 9 signed an executive order that mandates reviews of several of the state's renewable energy and emissions reductions programs. Pictured from left behind McKee are Craig Picknell of Bullard Abrasive, Karl Wadensten of VIBCO Inc., Igus Inc. CEO Felix Brockmeyer, United Way of Rhode Island CEO and President Cortney Nicolato, John Ranieri of Toray Plastics Inc., Administrator of the R.I. Division of Public Utilities and Carriers Linda George, Administrator Family and Adult Services for R.I. Donna Rook and Senate Majority Leader Frank Ciccone. /COURTESY R.I. GOVERNOR’S OFFICE

Gov. Daniel J. McKee on Feb. 9 signed an executive order requiring state regulators to vet the financial costs of renewable energy and energy-efficiency programs the administration says now make up roughly one-quarter of ratepayer utility bills.

The order mandates an immediate review of the state’s net metering and Renewable Energy Growth programs, as well as a longer-term review to come up with potential policy and legislative options and deliver them by Oct. 1.

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McKee’s fiscal 2027 budget proposal would eliminate or decrease programs, taxes and fees that now make up roughly 25% of ratepayer utility bills. Rhode Island currently has the fourth-highest residential electricity rates in the country.

Several business leaders joined McKee at the signing to show their support for efforts to reduce their energy costs.

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Renewable energy advocates that the potential rollback could threaten the state’s long-term renewable energy goals.