Deregulation Puts on the Brakes

Movement toward electric-industry restructuring has largely been stalled in most states, despite the fact that accompanying energy-efficiency programs have remained strong, concludes a recent study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficiency Economy (ACEEE), Washington, D.C.

While 24 states had passed restructuring legislation by the spring of 2000, that number, to date, has not increased. This halt in new activity can be attributed to the current post-deregulation power crisis in California, according to the ACEEE report.

Along with deregulation legislation, the study also highlights the fact that 19 states passed public-benefits policies—totaling more than $800 million—to fund energy-efficiency programs.

“It appears that the public benefits policies are the single most popular aspect of electric restructuring,” notes Dr. Martin Kushler, director of the utilities program at the ACEEE. “State policymakers are increasingly recognizing the potential for energy efficiency to lower customer energy bills, improve electric-system reliability and help hold down market prices for electricity.”

For more information on ACEEE’s A Revised 50-State Status Report on Electric Restructuring and Public Benefits , visit: www.aceee.org .

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