PROVIDENCE (AP) — Gov. Gina Raimondo wants state officials to develop strategies for transforming the way homes and businesses are heated in Rhode Island.

The Democrat signed an executive order on Wednesday that she hopes will advance the state's development of heating technologies that will be affordable and reliable, while also reducing its overall carbon footprint.

Raimondo is asking the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers, and the state Office of Energy Resources to spearhead the effort.

In a statement, the governor said Rhode Island is in the front lines of climate change, making it critical to find cleaner alternatives to existing energy systems.

She called the executive order an extension of her administration's goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing its renewable energy portfolio.