ROE: The Gorilla Is Still at the Door
Incentive regulation is not a cure-all for the continuing controversy over return on equity.
Incentive regulation is not a cure-all for the continuing controversy over return on equity.
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?
Interviews
For Public Utilities Fortnightly's 75th Anniversary CEO issue, the magazine looked to the horizon and asked these new captains about the planned course for their companies, and for an entire industry.
A new FERC decision veers away from congressional intent not to burden intrastate pipelines with interstate policies.
How IT can allow utilities to invest in customers — and even improve returns — without breaking the bank.
The commission's power grab over bankruptcy courts condemns merchants to a corporate netherworld.