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Changing energy prices and economic rents: the case of Western coal

Journal Article · · Land Econ.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2307/3146046· OSTI ID:6213910
This paper examines various types of economic rents that are generated by changing energy prices and, in the case of Wyoming coal, analyzes how these rents have changed over time. In particular, quasi-rents did accrue to firms producing coal and coal miners, but were dissipated. Monopoly revenues appear to have been received by railroads and state governments. Price discrimination by railroads against coal consumers represents a source of present and future monopoly revenues, while a state severance tax rate that is not linked to likely declines over time in social-impact costs represents another. The analysis highlights some questions that ought to be raised in public policy debates over energy policy. 11 references, 2 figures.
Research Organization:
Univ. of Wyoming, Laramie
OSTI ID:
6213910
Journal Information:
Land Econ.; (United States), Journal Name: Land Econ.; (United States) Vol. 59:2; ISSN LAECA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English