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Features of good utility-initiated energy assistance

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  • Costello, Kenneth W.

Abstract

This paper identifies criteria that public utility regulators can apply to assess the effectiveness of initiatives in making utility service more affordable to low-income households. It discusses the major features of energy-assistance (EA) actions that tend to make then successful from a societal perspective. Smart regulation demands that EA initiatives have favorable benefit-cost ratios. Regulators should strive to assure that each dollar expended returns the highest possible dividend, and that EA initiatives interfere minimally with other regulatory objectives; for example, minimal adverse effect on economic efficiency.

Suggested Citation

  • Costello, Kenneth W., 2020. "Features of good utility-initiated energy assistance," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 139(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:enepol:v:139:y:2020:i:c:s0301421520301026
    DOI: 10.1016/j.enpol.2020.111345
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    3. Turek-Hankins, Lynée L. & Schueler, Vince & Hino, Miyuki & Mach, Katharine J., 2026. "Weatherization reduces needs for energy bill assistance," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 208(C).

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