THE EFFECTS OF RENEWABLE OR CLEAN ELECTRICITY STANDARDS
"Federal lawmakers have recently considered several policies to alter the mix of fuels used to generate electricity in the United States. Those policies, referred to as renewable or "clean" electricity standards, would lead to greater reliance on energy sources that produce few or no emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2), the most prevalent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. This study examines how federal standards would change the mix of fuels used to generate electricity, the amount of CO2 emissions, and the retail price of electricity in different parts of the United States. In particular, the study explores how some proposed features of such standards (such as preferences, exemptions, and alternative compliance rules) would affect those outcomes. The study also highlights key elements in designing a renewable or clean electricity standard that would help minimize its costs to U.S. households and businesses..."