Bill · S. 4772· Senate(119-S-4772)
Renewable Energy Choice Act
- Introduced
- 6/11/2026
- Last activity
- 6/11/2026 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- Sponsored by
- Jeff Merkley
- Cosponsors
- None
- Introduced
- In Committee
What this bill would do
The Renewable Energy Choice Act stops State and local governments from blocking or limiting renewable energy services based on the energy source. It defines renewable energy as wind, solar, geothermal, and energy storage. The bill prevents these governments from using laws, building codes, or policies to restrict the installation, distribution, or expansion of these services. It specifically bans permanent bans and long-term moratoriums on such projects. It also sets limits on project height, setbacks, sound levels, and permitting fees.
Yes· 3 of 18
Does this put more money into wind, solar and other renewable power?+8
By prohibiting local bans and moratoriums, the bill creates a more stable and attractive environment for renewable energy investment.
Does this cut the pollution that drives climate change?+7
Expanding the installation and distribution of renewable energy directly contributes to lowering carbon emissions.
Does this give the federal government more power?+7
The bill significantly expands federal authority by prohibiting states and local governments from exercising their typical zoning and regulatory powers.
The opposite
Does this leave more decisions to the states?-8
The bill explicitly strips states and local governments of their ability to regulate renewable energy projects.
Who it would affect, and how
Potential Positive Impacts for People
-
Increased access to renewable energy: Section 3 prevents State and local governments from prohibiting or limiting the connection, installation, or expansion of renewable energy services, which allows more people to use these energy sources.
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Fairer permitting costs: Section 3(7) prevents governments from charging permitting fees that differ from the average fee charged for other energy projects of similar capacity.
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Clearer standards for projects: Section 3(3), (4), and (5) stop governments from limiting project height to less than 525 feet, creating setback requirements over 1,000 feet, or setting sound limits below 50 decibels.
Potential Negative Impacts for People
- Restriction of local government authority: Section 3 prohibits State and local governments, including regulatory agencies, from adopting or enforcing their own laws, ordinances, or building codes regarding renewable energy service limitations.
Groups and Interests Ranking
Every group the model scored this bill for, from -10 to +10. Hover a score for the reason it gave.
- Environment Energy And Infrastructure
- Increases Renewable Energy Investment+8Reduces Carbon Emissions+7Improves Environmental Protections+5Improves Rural Development+4Reduces Fossil Fuel Production+3
- Demographic And Interest Groups
- Good For Farmers+5Good For Business Owners+4Good For Rural Residents+3Good For Union Workers+3Good For Children+2Good For Low Income Households+2Good For Middle Class Households+2Good For Young Adults+2
- Economy And Finance
- Increases Job Creation+4Improves Economic Growth+3Improves Small Business Support+2
- Governance And Ideology
- Increases Federal Power+7Improves Interstate Commerce+5Increase States Rights-8
- 6/11/2026
- Read twice and referred to the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
- Introduced in Senate