How utility regulation fails us

Posted 6/4/20

Under state regulation of electric utilities, profits are not determined by customer choices but by political clout.

Rate-of-return regulation leads to over-investment in capital assets and can …

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How utility regulation fails us

Posted

Under state regulation of electric utilities, profits are not determined by customer choices but by political clout.

Rate-of-return regulation leads to over-investment in capital assets and can only occur when competition is denied.

This burden of excess investment and the associated return is added to the cost of regulatory compliance. Utilities and regulators routinely redistribute wealth through crosssubsidy of politically favored customers.

Since only supply and demand markets can set the proper price for goods and services, any action by regulators and lawmakers is wrong and destructive.

A study by a team of Australian scientists finds observed greening is much higher than previous estimates.

Carbon dioxide-induced plant growth measured by satellites confirms why UN computer models are always wrong due to their underestimating the CO2 stimulus to vegetation. We’re saved! The world will not come to an end.

But are the greens happy about this? No. They are terribly disappointed.

The proponents of big government must find another excuse to justify their goals.

Let’s get real. With a serious recession underway it’s time to pitch the green wash, the flowery sustainability statements, the impossible goals and the token projects to demonstrate political correctness.

Corporations are focusing on their real job – making money for stockholders.

Jim Clarkson. Columbia

Thanks for a great newspaper

I have enjoyed the Chronicle over the years. Thank you for all you do to make this newspaper great – especially during these trying times.

Pat Hinson, Lexington

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