Testing Accordion Type
Before we can really move forward and explore energy policy in depth, we need to take a look at the types of policy out there that can be employed to achieve energy goals. As you read through this part of the lesson, be thinking about how different policy instruments are either more or less appropriate for different energy-related issues.
First, let's look broadly at the difference between legislation and regulation:
Legislation is a law that has been enacted by some type of governing body (Congress, the President, or some other governing body); before it was passed into law, it was likely referred to as a bill.
Example of Legislation: American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
Think of regulations as the way legislation is actually enacted on the ground. This can take on many forms, as you'll see below. Regulations are the details of implementation for achieving the desired effects of legislation.
Examples of Regulation: Click on the arrows below to see the various provisions in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 related to energy.
Policy Mechanisms and Examples
What are some of the types of regulations we might see enacted in energy legislation?
- Taxation
- Standards
- Incentives and grants