When it Comes to Energy Policy the Challenge is "Striking the Right Balance," Shows Report

By 2035, nearly 40% of all new energy capacity will come from renewable energies according to a report from the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL). However, one resource or technology will not meet the energy needs of the future. It is necessary to develop a comprehensive plan that includes a combination of many technologies and resources. This plan may include energy efficiency, natural gas, cleaner coal technologies, nuclear energy, smart grid technologies and renewable energy. Local, state and federal governments will play an important role in shaping the future sources of energy, electricity transmission & delivery systems and electricity production & supply system.

The NCSL report provides an analysis of current energy sources (i.e., coal, natural gas, nuclear, renewable energies) and energy infrastructure. It also provides a state-by-state breakdown of energy costs. Currently, the energy sector faces many systematic issues that arise from a growing population and an increase in demand for electronic goods. Policymakers are tasked with the responsibility of creating policy that will address effectively price, energy security, environmental concerns and transmission constraints. The report, however, warns that policymakers must remember the energy policy decisions made today will have long-term effects on the economic and environmental goals of the state or region.

NCSL also provides a glimpse into the future of energy sources and energy delivery infrastructure. Examining several energy studies, the report provides a meta-analysis of the future composition of domestic energy generation. The authors also discuss the challenges and opportunities that will arise in the coming years from energy efficiency, natural gas coal, nuclear, and renewable energies. Renewable energies, the report states, should drastically decline in cost due to federal and state investments. Coal, however, due to mounting environmental and sustainability concerns will need to look towards coal gasification and carbon capture and sequestration to remain a viable energy source.

A list of "state policy options" also is included in the NCSL report. It provides a toolbox of policy alternatives currently utilized by states to shape energy policy. They include policy options in coal technologies, natural gas, transmission, nuclear energy, energy efficiency, and renewable energies (including specific policies for solar, wind biomass, geothermal and small hydropower). However, NCSL strongly encourages states and regions to develop their policies and energy plan based upon financing options, environmental impacts, and sources that are economically viable for citizens. Read the Report ...

Want a better understanding of the green economy? You should attend the SSTI Annual Conference's pre-conference session: The Energy Imperative: Maximizing Green TBED Opportunities in Pittsburgh, PA, on September 14. During this session, you will have the opportunity to hear from and speak with experts regarding the future of energy. These experts will provide you the knowledge necessary to develop a strong energy plan that address all the issues described in the NCSL report. You also will have the ability to ask them questions that may address the concerns you have regarding your region's energy future. In a time when issues surrounding energy — its source, efficiency, conservation, recovery — permeate every aspect of our lives, how could you miss an opportunity to position your region at the forefront of the green revolution? Learn more ...