Candidate Proposes Moving Renewable Energy Goal to 2040

Rhode Island homeowners may see changes to utility bill taxes and energy timelines under a new gubernatorial initiative.

Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Bold vector editorial illustration showing a high-voltage tower on a rocky coastal ridge, representing state energy policy. — Gubernatorial candidate Ken Block has proposed shifting Rhode Island's 100% renewable energy goal to 2040 as part of a state cost-saving initiative. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Should candidates for public office be required to disclose their personal tax returns to voters?

Rhode Island gubernatorial candidate Ken Block has unveiled a 17-point plan for his first 100 days in office, which includes a significant shift in the state's renewable energy strategy. The proposal adjusts the state's timeline for reaching 100% renewable energy from 2033 to 2040.

Why it matters

This policy adjustment is aimed at state energy costs, with projections suggesting the shift could save Rhode Island residents and the state almost half a billion dollars on utility bills. It marks a major pivot in the state's long-term environmental and fiscal planning.

The plan proposes extending the 100% renewable energy deadline by seven years, moving the target from 2033 to 2040. This change is estimated to reduce total state energy costs by nearly $500 million.

The players

Ken Block

An independent candidate for governor of Rhode Island who is focusing his platform on government efficiency and energy policy.

The details

Block's proposal includes removing specific municipal and fire district property taxes from residential energy bills to lower costs. Additionally, the plan seeks to improve government efficiency by merging the Department of Transportation with the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority and combining the Department of Environmental Management with the Coastal Resources Management Council.

October 26, 2026: Ken Block announced his initiative plan at the State House.
2033: This was the original target year for the state to reach 100% renewable energy.
2040: This is the new proposed target year for 100% renewable energy under Block's plan.

The Home Front

This proposal recalibrates the state's existing renewable energy goal of 2033, which has served as a primary driver for regional utility investments. It marks a departure from current legislative targets, prioritizing short-term cost relief for utility ratepayers over the original timeline.

Rhode Island homeowners should monitor how potential changes to energy-related property taxes on utility bills may impact their monthly household costs. Keep an eye on future policy debates regarding the 2040 renewable energy goal to understand how it might influence long-term home energy infrastructure.

The takeaway

Candidates are currently debating major shifts to state infrastructure and energy timelines that could influence your utility costs. Voters should track how these proposed 100-day initiatives might impact their municipal taxes and long-term energy planning.