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Delaware introduces Clean Energy Jobs Act

Gov. Jack Markell of Delaware has announced his intention to seek legislation that will modify the existing Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS), put more people to work, and expand emerging industries such as wind and solar power.

The proposed legislation, the Clean Energy Jobs Act, would add a longer-range target to the existing RPS. Delaware has already committed to achieving an RPS of 20 percent by 2019, but the new proposal would put the state on a course to receive 30 percent of its energy supplies from renewable sources by 2029.

"The purpose of this initiative is simple: to create quality jobs, expand local manufacturing, and establish Delaware as a national leader in the adoption of renewable energy," Markell said. "We also hope to serve as a model for other states, because we can move rapidly, respond to opportunities more quickly, and get people back to work."

Markell made the announcement at Motech Americas, a solar company in Newark, Del. The firm currently employs more than 70 people and is in the process of expanding manufacturing capacity. It is expected to add 75 more jobs before the end of the year.