Lifeline electricity rates as an income-transfer device

Journal Article · Sat Jan 31 23:00:00 EST 1981 · Land Econ.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.2307/3145751· OSTI ID:6404089

Burgess, G; Paglin, M

The lifeline electricity rates are presumed to be inefficient because they violate optimal pricing principles, but they may also be an ineffective and inequitable way to transfer assistance to low-income households. Evidence is presented to challenge the assumption that simple demand changes will permit high-consuming households to subsidize low-income users. Social security, food stamps, and other social programs are better alternatives to a general income transfer. 7 references, 2 tables. (DCK)

• Research Organization: Portland State Univ., OR
• OSTI ID: 6404089
• Journal Information: Land Econ.; (United States), Journal Name: Land Econ.; (United States) Vol. 57:1; ISSN LAECA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290200 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Economics & Sociology
296000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Electric Power
BEHAVIOR
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
ECONOMICS
ELECTRIC UTILITIES
HUMAN POPULATIONS
INCOME DISTRIBUTION
LOW INCOME GROUPS
MINORITY GROUPS
POPULATIONS
PUBLIC UTILITIES
RATE STRUCTURE