Curbed Enthusiasm for Electricity Reform

As the premiere publication in a new series on electricity restructuring, this briefing examines global experiences with electricity reform. Although there may be curbed enthusiasm for reform, this briefing suggests that an improved public policy approach could still deliver desired outcomes.

Document Highlights

Curbed Enthusiasm for Electricity Reform, the first in a new series of briefings from the Energy Policy Centre at The Conference Board of Canada, examines recent experiences with electricity restructuring in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It explores the unique characteristics of the electricity industry and the special challenges that regions face when undertaking restructuring.

In particular, this briefing takes an in-depth look at the relationship between environmental policy and market regulation relating to electricity restructuring. How have policy decisions in North America contributed to the current uncertain investment climate and curbed enthusiasm for the liberalization of electricity markets? How can policy be improved?

This briefing contends that an improved public policy approach to electricity restructuring can achieve desirable economic and environmental objectives, such as lower prices and greener electricity generation. It also identifies key questions that must be answered before moving ahead successfully with liberalization.