Decentralized energy planning and consensus in energy policy

Conference · Fri May 02 04:00:00 EDT 1980

OSTI ID:6929396

Wilbanks, T. J.

This paper explores the following three propositions and their relationships: (1) that, in our pluralistic policymaking environment, we cannot solve our nation's energy problems unless we can reach agreement among a diverse group of interested parties about specific actions; (2) that, short of a manifest emergency, such a consensus is difficult to reach unless the scale of the decision-making unit is relatively small; and therefore (3) that one of the keys to an effective energy policy in the United states is to rely heavily on local and regional energy planning and decision-making. First, the paper reviews our problem of irresolution and its roots, and it summaries the policy options for resolving it. Then it explores one of those options, decentralized planning, in a little more detail. Finally, it offers some speculations about the viability of a decentralized approach to energy planninng.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-26
• OSTI ID: 6929396
• Report Number(s): CONF-800547-1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
292000* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Supply
Demand & Forecasting
293000 -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Policy
Legislation
& Regulation
COOPERATION
DECISION MAKING
ENERGY POLICY
ENERGY SUPPLIES
GOVERNMENT POLICIES
LOCAL GOVERNMENT
NORTH AMERICA
PLANNING
RECOMMENDATIONS
REGIONAL COOPERATION
USA