Election 2018: Renewable Energy Ballot Initiative Kicks Off

NEVADA - The future of clean energy in Nevada could be headed for a vote. The Nevadans for a Clean Energy Future announced the beginning of a campaign for a 2018 ballot initiative that would require the state's energy providers convert their resources to at least 50 percent renewable by the year 2030.

The group has filed paper work to begin collecting the necessary amount of signatures to appear on the 2018 ballot. The measure needs 112,534 signatures by June 19. Supporters cite bipartisan and widespread state support for renewable energy, saying that if the measure becomes law, the state will reduce energy costs and pollution and increase energy-related jobs.

“This ballot measure sets an aggressive but achievable goal that the vast majority of Nevadans support,” said Warren Hardy, former State Senator and lobbyist for the city of Mesquite. “It's an intelligent approach to attract increased clean energy investment and new clean energy jobs. International companies like Apple and Tesla are investing in states like Nevada where they can get clean, sustainable renewable energy. This measure signals to corporations, like them, that Nevada is serious about innovating and addressing their clean energy wants and needs."

Polling suggests that Nevadans do support more renewable energy policy. Following the 2017 legislative session lawmakers, too, showed their support. Gov. Brian Sandoval approved several clean energy bills, but he vetoed a measure calling for 40 percent renewable energy production by 2030, The Nevada Independent reported.

Nevadans for a Clean Energy Future includes the following groups:

• Nevada Conservation League
• Chispa Nevada
• Faith Organization Alliance
• Clean Energy Project
• Conservatives for Responsible Stewardship
• Vote Solar
• NextGen America
• National Resource Defense Council
• Solar Energy Industries Association
• Western Resource Advocates
• Battle Born Progress

Image via John Locher/Associated Press