NJ Governor Chris Christie announced last week that his state would be pulling out the ten-state Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI), providing an interesting look at the way in which governors, and other politicians struggling with economic woes, are handling pressures to reduce carbon emissions and internal pressures from constituencies.

RGGI is intended to lower greenhouse gas emissions by setting a cap and trade pricing system with steadily contracting limits.

Christie cited the low auction prices and competition from Pennsylvania coal plants as reasons for exiting the program.

Christie also outlined a detailed plan for energy efficiency, including increased development of wind, solar and natural gas generators.