PrintAbout this Lesson
Now that we've learned about the different policy tools and the various policy actors at all scales, this lesson takes a look at the implementation of these energy policies and how they take shape. We'll explore laws, taxes, incentive programs, permitting, and how standards are put into practice by examining real examples of each.
Update Note to this Lesson: As noted in the class introduction, much of the material in these lessons has been created over a period of time. With the change of instructors starting in the Fall of 2025, we took the opportunity to update some parts to reflect changes, especially with the change from the Biden to Trump administrations. Very significantly, the Trump Administration has issued new executive orders (EO), most notable EO 14154 Unleashing American Energy. In addition to its own requirements and goals, It is important to note that EO 14154 revokes a number of previously existing orders that implemented elements of prior policies. Whereas the Executive Branch cannot change laws without the approval of Congress, it does have the right to direct the agencies on how to implement, or not implement, elements of prior policies. Also, unless codified by Congress, EOs are binding only on the Executive Branch agencies, and can be revoked at any time by any President. In other words, President Trump had as much right to revoke President Biden’s and other’s orders as President Biden and other Presidents had to create them. As such, in the sections below in this chapter, be aware that some provisions of some polices may no longer be in effect. You should read EO 14154 Unleashing American Energy in conjunction with the content in this lesson.
By the end of this Lesson, you should be able to:
- understand how laws, regulations, taxes, and grants are implemented at the national and state scales and how these scales interact for implementation;
-
appreciate the complexity of energy policy implementation, and understand the strengths and weaknesses associated with different types of policy.
What is due this week?
This lesson will take us one week to complete. You are responsible for this lesson content, external assigned readings, and lesson activities. Please refer to Canvas for deliverables and due dates.
Questions?
If you have questions, please feel free to post them to the "Have a question about the lesson?" discussion forum in Canvas. While you are there, feel free to post your own responses if you, too, are able to help a classmate.