Energy
Climate change, geopolitics, and other factors have encouraged a transition from a fossil fuel-based economy to one that is more reliant on cleaner, renewable forms of energy. IEc assists policymakers seeking innovative ways to facilitate and encourage this transition. IEc applies its expertise in air policy, program evaluation, benefit-cost analysis, public utilities, and finance to help state and federal entities create alternative energy and energy efficiency programs that properly balance economic growth, environmental protection, and energy independence objectives.
In the energy policy area, IEc’s client base is as diverse as our services. We have completed studies for several state agencies, including the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources, the Oregon Department of Energy, the California Energy Commission, and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority. We also work closely with several federal agencies whose actions affect state policy goals, including the U.S. Department of Energy, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Department of the Interior. Finally, IEc consultants offer comprehensive program design, implementation, and evaluation services to an array of public and private clients, including those pursuing energy efficiency and renewable energy objectives.
Specialty Areas
IEc economists offer unparalleled expertise in characterizing the economic and environmental impacts of energy policy alternatives. We have performed landmark studies considering how conversion to alternative and renewable energy sources may affect air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, human health, individual economic welfare, and the overall performance of the U.S. economy. IEc has also examined how development of offshore oil and gas resources could affect the marine environment and energy markets.
IEc helps clients examine how to re-engineer energy generation and delivery in ways that satisfy evolving consumer demand and address environmental realities. We have helped clients assess deployment of large-scale renewable energy systems designed to satisfy policy targets. We also have assessed innovative options for restructuring energy systems away from centralized systems and toward smaller-scale, distributed generation systems that are less vulnerable to large failure events often associated with climate change, sea level rise, and other catastrophic threats.
Organizations of all types are increasingly using sustainability as the fundamental organizing principle for their operations and aspirations. Learn more about our sustainability work.
Project Examples
Analysis of Microgrid Projects in New York State
New York State Energy Research and Development Authority