Powering the Future
All Publications
Press Releases
RTOs Failed to Reduce Wholesale Power Costs
Washington, D.C.-Regional transmission organizations have not produced lower wholesale prices for electricity and the states in these RTOs have higher average prices than regulated states, according to a study released today by the Technology Policy Institute, a Washington-based think tank.
Research Papers
Evaluating the Effects of Wholesale Electricity Restructuring
Electric power is one of the last major regulated industries to undergo some form of ?liberalization.? One of the most important steps has been creating regional transmission organizations (RTOs) in major regions of the country. RTOs are independent non-profit entities that operate utility-owned transmission networks. They are intended to increase competition and efficiency in the market for wholesale power, which should lead to lower wholesale prices. This paper tests whether RTOs have, in fact, achieved this goal.
Research Papers
DTV coupon program mainly benefits retailers, not consumers
TPI vice president for research and senior fellow Scott Wallsten finds that the government’s DTV coupon program has increased the price of digital-to-analog converter boxes by $21-$34, meaning that the subsidy is primarily benefiting retailers rather than consumers. The $40 coupons made available to all households means that consumers pay $0 for any retail price less than $40 for eligible boxes, thus diminishing price competition among retailers.
Press Releases
September 26th Event: Powering the Future, Key Energy Issues For the Next Administration
The Technology Policy Institute is hosting a conference to discuss this country’s energy future, highlighted by a preview of the next Administration’s policy options from Douglas Holtz-Eakin representing the McCain campaign and Jason Grumet representing the Obama campaign.