The analysis by IHS Emerging Energy Research estimates that renewables demand across states with binding RESs – also known as renewable portfolio standards (RPSs) – will grow from a projected 137TWh in 2010 to 479TWh in 2025.
It described state RESs as the most critical factor in determining the speed of US renewables growth.
RESs typically require utilities to derive a certain percentage of their generation from renewables, though in some cases utilities must procure a certain wattage of renewable power.
Renewable standards have been passed in 29 states and the District of Columbia. Several other states have voluntary renewables goals.
Whether RES targets are met will depend on factors including resource availability, transmission, renewables’ cost relative to conventional generation and political will to enforce the targets, the report said.
IHS renewable power research director Alex Klein said: "The next five years will be especially critical as the industry faces its first real test of a significant ramp-up in RPS demand."
The report also said that the introduction of a federal RES, such as that passed by the House of Representatives last year, would take renewables demand over 600TWh by 2025.
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