2019/12/01 by Alan Rai, Tim Nelson · 1 citation
Engineering · Economics, Econometrics and Finance · Social Sciences · #Electric Power System Optimization #Housing, Finance, and Neoliberalism #Canadian Policy and Governance
paper · doi:10.1111/1467-8462.12359
Abstract The Hilmer reforms served electricity consumers well over the first post‐reform decade. However, three key issues emerged from the mid‐2000s: (i) a significant and largely unnecessary rise in network expenditures; (ii) emissions policy discontinuity; and (iii) a large increase in wholesale prices due to rising fuel prices and the sudden exit of generators. The consequence was a doubling in retail prices. Deficiencies in cost‐recovery mechanisms have meant price increases have disproportionately affected low‐income households. We propose three key reforms as rectification: (i) integrating emissions reduction and energy policies; (ii) boosting network capacity utilisation; and (iii) improving cost recovery mechanisms.