States Reviewing Energy Projects that would Benefit Region 

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut, Massachusetts and Rhode Island officials and electric utilities have joined together in evaluating more than 50 solicitations from energy companies to build in the region, generating power for all three states.

The three southern New England states hope to leverage their combined purchasing power and attract wind, solar and fuel cell projects they possibly couldn’t lure on their own.

The goal is to lower consumers’ utility costs in a high-price region of the country.

It’s the first time states have joined in a coordinated procurement for clean resources. Officials say they need more time to evaluate the proposals. They hope to have approvals completed by the end of the year.

New England governors have called for working together to bring cleaner, affordable power to the region.