A bipartisan group of governors in the US have vowed to boost their efforts towards using renewable energy sources.

An accord signed by governors from 17 states, including California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New York and Washington, suggest the need to make the country “more productive and resilient” by deploying green energy and more energy efficient solutions.

They believe it is “time to embrace a bold vision” of the nation’s energy future and are joining forces “despite unique opportunities and challenges in each state”.

The agreement states: “Expanding energy efficiency and renewable energy in a cost-effective way strengthens out states’ economic productivity, reduces air pollution and avoids energy waste. Integrating more of these clean energy sources into our electricity grids can also improve the flexibility and stability of these grids.

“Promoting energy savings through efficiency and conservation programmes is the fastest, most reliable and often cheapest way to meet our energy needs.”

The governors have also pledged to modernise energy infrastructure and encourage clean transportation in the states.

Last week the US Supreme Court temporarily blocked Presisent Barack Obama’s Clean Power Plan.