This course explores the regulatory and policy landscape that shapes energy projects development and electricity system transformation in the United States. Students will examine the roles and responsibilities of key federal, state, and local agencies - including FERC, NERC, and state public utility commissions - and how their decisions influence everything from system reliability to clean energy deployment.
 
Through a close look at regulatory processes such as permitting, environmental review, interconnection, and cost allocation, the course offers practical insights into the complex path energy projects must navigate. Students will also assess how policies like renewable portfolio standards (RPS), clean energy standards (CES), tax credits, and major legislation like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) are driving market transformation and investment.
 
The course addresses jurisdictional tensions between state and federal authorities, while highlighting how regulatory frameworks are adapting to support equitable energy transitions. A case study on clean energy policy implementation in a leading state - such as New York or California -grounds the course in real-world outcomes and trade-offs.
 
COURSE TOPICS:

• Regulatory Frameworks: FERC, NERC, State PUCs, and NRC
• Clean Energy Policy Instruments: RPS, RECS, ZECS, CES, ITCs, PTCs
• Permitting and Environmental Review (NEPA, CEQA, etc.)
• Interconnection Processes and Transmission Access
• State vs. Federal Jurisdiction Conflicts and Coordination
• Major Legislation
• Energy Transitions and Environmental Justice
• Case Study: New York or California Clean Energy Policy Implementation

Continuing Education Units (CEU) : 0

You'll walk away with

• An understanding of federal, state, and local energy regulatory bodies
• Skills to analyze how policies drive energy investment and market transformation
• Knowledge of permitting, interconnection and market transformation