John Farrell is a senior researcher at the Institute for Local Self-Reliance specializing in energy policy developments that expand the benefits of local ownership. His report Energy Self-Reliant States found that at least "three-fifths of the fifty states could meet all their internal electricity needs from renewable energy generated inside their borders."

Check his new infographic on challenges for a renewable energy future that stem from utility rules. From Farrell: "Many people expect that solar power will dramatically expand once it bursts through the cost barrier and becomes less expensive than grid electricity. But archaic utility rules can effectively cap local solar development at just 15% of peak demand. Fortunately, pioneering states like Hawaii and California are exploring ways to lift the cap and bring utility rules into the 21st century."

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