With the advent of "New Federalism" and reduced federal attention on regional energy concerns, the states are now in the forefront of energy policy in the United States, extensively involved in implementing federal conservation programs, pursuing independent initiatives, and adopting entirely new directions in the regulation of electric and gas uti
This book provides the first comprehensive assessment of energy policies, evaluating state conservation and renewable energy programs, highlighting innovative program efforts, and presenting the lessons learned from the states' implementation experiences.
Introduction -- Energy and the States -- Inventory of Current State
Energy Activities -- Evaluating Energy Programs in Michigan -- Improving
Energy Efficiency of Existing Homes: The Residential Conservation Service --
Shifting Winds, Changing Tides: Navigating Low-Income Conservation Programs
Through Uncharted Waters -- Politics and Policy: The Minnesota Community
Energy Program -- Efficiency Standards in Californias Energy Policy --
Renewable Energy Tax Incentives: Status, Evaluation Attempts, Continuing
Issues -- Californias Experience in Promoting Renewable Energy Development
-- Unmet Energy Needs: The States Perspective -- State Governments Role in
the Development of Energy Service Contracting -- The Role of Public Utility
Commissions -- Stimulating Innovation Through Alternate Institutions -- The
Evolution of State Level Energy Institutions
Stephen W. Sawyer is assistant professor in the Department of Geography at the University of Maryland. John R. Armstrong was formerly director of the Office of Energy Conservation and Development at the Minnesota Department of Energy and Economic Development. He is now an energy consultant for developing countries.