A new climate change bill, with a focus on energy reform, has just been passed in the Upper Chamber of Puerto Rico’s government. Senator Larry Seilhamer, the lead author of the bill, developed measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 40% of 1990 levels by the year 2035. The measure establishes policy to prevent new coal power plants and renewal of contracts, and will aim to increase renewable energy to 50 percent by 2050.
The measure includes tax credits for acquisition and installation of renewable energy equipment, and establishes policy to reduce energy consumption in public buildings by 20 percent.
This project has support from every member of the senate, as it has been seen as a way to mitigate future damages as those caused by hurricanes Irma and María.
