§ 2-1206

In developing and implementing the plans required by § 2–1205 of this subtitle, the Department shall:

(1) Analyze the feasibility of measures to comply with the greenhouse gas emissions reductions required by this subtitle;

(2) Consider the impact on rural communities of any transportation related measures proposed in the plans;

(3) Provide that a greenhouse gas emissions source that voluntarily reduces its greenhouse gas emissions before the implementation of this subtitle shall receive appropriate credit for its early voluntary actions;

(4) Provide for the use of offset credits generated by alternative compliance mechanisms executed within the State, including carbon sequestration projects, to achieve compliance with greenhouse gas emissions reductions required by this subtitle;

(5) Ensure that the plans do not decrease the likelihood of reliable and affordable electrical service and statewide fuel supplies;

(6) Consider whether the measures would result in an increase in electricity costs to consumers in the State;

(7) Consider the impact of the plans on the ability of the State to:

(i) Attract, expand, and retain commercial aviation services; and

(ii) Conserve, protect, and retain agriculture;

(8) Ensure that the greenhouse gas emissions reduction measures implemented in accordance with the plans:

(i) Are implemented in an efficient and cost–effective manner;

(ii) Do not disproportionately impact rural or low–income, low– to moderate–income, or minority communities or any other particular class of electricity ratepayers;

(iii) Minimize leakage;

(iv) Are quantifiable, verifiable, and enforceable;

(v) Directly cause no loss of existing jobs in the manufacturing sector;

(vi) Produce a net economic benefit to the State’s economy and a net increase in jobs in the State, as compared with a no–action scenario; and

(vii) Encourage new employment opportunities in the State related to energy conservation, alternative energy supply, and greenhouse gas emissions reduction technologies, particularly in areas of the State experiencing a combination of urban heat and climate impacts;

(9) Incorporate top–down methane emissions data acquired through aircraft observations; and

(10) Use the best available scientific information, as included in the most recent assessments and reports of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.