Energy Experts’ Excerpts
Written by Vincent E. Martinelli, Jr.
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Dr. Emily Sanford, an energy economist at the University of California, Berkeley, provided the following insights:
"The regional disparities in energy costs across the United States are driven by a complex interplay of factors - from the fuel mix used for electricity generation to the age and efficiency of local infrastructure. While the national trends show rising costs, the specific challenges and potential solutions will vary considerably by state and even within regions. For example, the Midwest and Southeast, with their abundant fossil fuel resources, have generally enjoyed lower electricity rates. However, they also face the challenge of transitioning to cleaner energy sources, which could put upward pressure on prices in the near-term. Conversely, the Northeast and West Coast, with their greater reliance on natural gas and renewables, have seen higher rates but may be better positioned for long-term sustainability. Policymakers need to take a tailored, regional approach when addressing energy affordability. Targeted support for low-income households, incentives for energy efficiency upgrades, and strategic investments in grid modernization and clean energy infrastructure will be critical. Close collaboration between state/local governments, utility providers, and community stakeholders will be essential to develop solutions that meet the unique needs of each region." Mark Dyson, a principal at the Rocky Mountain Institute's Electricity Practice, offered this perspective: "The energy transition underway in the United States is creating both challenges and opportunities when it comes to regional energy costs. While the shift towards renewable energy and electrification holds promise for reducing long-term environmental impacts and price volatility, the upfront costs and infrastructure changes required can create short-term affordability concerns, particularly for disadvantaged communities. One key regional dynamic is the difference between urban and rural areas. Rural regions often face higher electricity rates due to the costs of maintaining expansive grid networks to serve smaller, dispersed populations. Targeted policies and programs to support energy efficiency upgrades and community-scale renewable projects can help address these disparities. Additionally, regions with high fossil fuel dependence, such as coal-heavy states in the Midwest, will likely see more significant disruptions and price increases as they navigate the transition. Comprehensive planning, worker retraining initiatives, and equitable transition strategies will be critical to ensure these communities are not left behind." Opinions of Americans about energy and climate change The 2024 Climate Insights report by researchers at Stanford University and RFF examines the latest American public opinion on federal climate policies. The survey found that while a large majority of Americans still support government action on climate change, support for some specific policies has cooled since 2020. For example, 72% of Americans in 2024 favor tax breaks for utilities to increase renewable electricity generation, down from 85% in 2020. Support also declined for a carbon tax and cap-and-trade program. However, the report notes that most Americans don't believe climate action will harm the economy, and "green" policy positions still boost a political candidate's appeal, especially among Independents. Overall, the findings suggest the public remains broadly supportive of climate action, though the specific policy approaches preferred may be shifting. |
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