R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-140.1-6: Additional general powers.

In order to effectuate its powers and duties the council has the following powers:

(1) To make any studies of conditions, activities, or problems related to the state’s energy needs, usage, and supplies to carry out its responsibilities.

(2) To adopt and amend bylaws, to establish committees, to elect and/or appoint officers and agents, and to engage consultants and professional services as necessary and appropriate to fulfill its purposes.

(3) To accept and administer grants from the federal government and from other sources, public or private, for the carrying out of any of its functions, which loans or grants shall not be expended for other than the purposes for which provided.

(4) To work with the appropriate federal, regional, and state agencies, and private entities.

(5) To apply for, accept, and expend allocations, grants, and bequests of funds, for the purpose of carrying out the lawful responsibilities of the council.