The treacherous journey toward a more efficient and transparent Northwest power market may be nearing its conclusion.
Commission policies need to recognize customer obligations and state commission decisions.
Critics say FERC's filed rate doctrine is wrong for the times.
Commission Watch
CPUC questioned historic oversight authority.
To guarantee the continued growth of liquefied natural gas (LNG) importation and use in the United States, the energy industry needs to pay close attention to govern the regulation, siting, and operation of LNG import terminals-issues traditionally overseen by the federal government.
Power Measurement
A look at issues that could keep energy executives up at night.
The most common strategic issue depriving utility executives of sleep is the looming clash of investor expectations for steady growth in earnings compared with what utilities can deliver given slow growth in customers and demand. While many dream of assured regulated rates of return, the reality for most utilities is that the 1.5 percent retail growth experienced between 2002 and 2003 will prove unsatisfactory for earnings.
Complex billing is one way to minimize the size and frequency of blackouts.
The search continues for the smoking gun responsible for the Northeast blackout last August. Absent a clearly defined single cause, analysts turn to the usual suspects: Is the grid large enough? Does it require additional investment? Given that the grid was never designed to handle a competitive industry, is it reasonable to require that it now do so?
A new FERC decision veers away from congressional intent not to burden intrastate pipelines with interstate policies.
The commission's power grab over bankruptcy courts condemns merchants to a corporate netherworld.
Despite development challenges, LNG capacity is destined to play a bigger role in the U.S. energy mix.
Solving the dilemma.