EPA, UTILITIES TARGET STATE RULES THAT MAY BLOCK ENERGY EFFICIENCY

A new energy efficiency group spearheaded by EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) may recommend policy solutions at the state regulatory level that aim to encourage utilities to support energy efficiency, by changing electricity rate regulations that reward electric generators based on the volume of power sold. The new group represents an unusual foray for the agency into electricity rate policy, but proponents say efficiency measures are a key way to reduce demand for natural gas and to cut...