23 Mar 2010 02:03:10

US state lifts renewable energy standards

The US state of Colorado has signed a new law which requires a higher percentage of its power to be generated from renewable sources in the future.

Under the new legislation, a total of 30 percent of Colorado's electricity must come from solar, wind, tidal and other forms of renewable energy by 2020.

The previous target required just 20 percent to come from renewables.

Governor Bill Ritter said the move would help to protect the environment, boost economic growth and create renewable energy jobs.

Colorado now has the second-highest minimum standard for renewables in the US, after California, which has a 33 percent requirement.

"Today we continue to chart a new course for Colorado's new energy economy and America's clean energy economy," said Mr Ritter.

"Colorado is giving every state and the entire nation a template for tomorrow."

According to a recent report by Environment America, the US has the potential to obtain ten percent or more of its energy from solar power by 2030.

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