The energy crisis, in association with rapid population growth in the state, the cancellation of several proposed coal-fired power plants in the region, and several transmission issues, put pressure on Reno and Nevada to find new sources of electric power.  The state, and especially the city of Reno, responded by significantly increasing solar capacity.  Legislative policy at the state level allowed Reno to make significant strides with energy efficiency measures and to install more solar to help lessen the need for more electricity.