Regulatory Choices: A Perspective on Developments in Energy Policy

Regulatory Choices provides a comprehensive economic history of energy policy and its consequences for California, examining the issue of setting utility rates and exploring the costs and environmental impacts of alternative energy sources. The book concludes by documenting the results of subsidy programs designed to target the development of wind power and residential energy conservation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 408 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

Regulatory Choices provides a comprehensive economic history of energy policy and its consequences for California, a region known for pioneering innovative and far-reaching regulatory reform programs. The authors of this volume have assembled an extensive collection of material on actual policy decisions and their economic impact, subjecting their findings to rigorous economic analysis. This book will serve as an invaluable reference for years to come, shedding light on the costs and effects of various energy policies.

The first part of the book explores the issue of setting utility rates and examines proposals aimed at providing regulated industries with incentives to address economic and environmental concerns. It discusses the challenges of energy supply, including a survey of alternative energy sources' costs and environmental impacts, as well as a case study of the construction of the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant.

The second part of the book delves into the complexities of managing energy production. It examines the costs and benefits of different energy sources, such as renewable energy and nuclear power, and assesses the environmental impacts of these technologies. The book also provides a case study of subsidy programs designed to promote wind power and residential energy conservation.

Regulators' record in managing energy production is mixed. Some conservation programs have achieved significant economic success, particularly those that improve consumer information and awareness. However, other programs, such as renewable energy tax credits or technology subsidies, have incurred significant costs without generating commensurate energy savings.

The study reveals that regulated industries are not immune to the forces of competition. While regulation can provide stability and ensure a fair distribution of resources, it can also hinder innovation and efficiency. The book emphasizes the need for policymakers to strike a balance between promoting economic growth and protecting the environment.

In conclusion, Regulatory Choices offers a valuable insights into the economic history of energy policy and its implications for California. It provides a comprehensive analysis of policy decisions, their economic impact, and the challenges faced by regulators in managing energy production. The book serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, industry professionals, and scholars interested in understanding the complex dynamics of energy policy and its effects on society economy.

Weight: 635g
Dimension: 234 x 156 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520327207