A Capsule of Issues and Events

Energy Information Administration

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Contents

Electricity Generation in a Competitive Market
Generating Components: Key Terms and Definitions
Electric Utility Ownership by NERC Region
Wholesale Market
Retail Market
The Drivers of Change
The Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978: Specifications Regarding Utilities
The Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935: Goals and Specifications
The Repeal of PURPA and PUHCA
Regulatory Changes by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Current Federal Legislative Restructuring Proposals
State Progress
Transitional Strategies of Major Investor-Owned Utilities

Note from the EIA Administrator

Dear Reader,

Today, the Nation is abuzz with the changes taking place within the electric power industry, and with good reason, considering the role electricity plays in our national economy as well as in our daily lives.  This industry has operated as a regulated monopoly for over 100 years.  It is now being restructured to operate in a more competitive market.

The Energy Information Administration (EIA) has the responsibility to provide timely, high-quality energy information and to perform objective, credible analyses for both public and private decisionmakers.  To that end, we have been striving to provide Congress, Federal and State agencies, the electric power industry, and the general public with up-to-date data and information concerning all aspects of restructuring.  

The breadth and scope of the interrelated issues, problems, facts, and data can be overwhelming.  Those involved in the restructuring of the electric power industry must be aware of all of these aspects.  Those not closely involved, but in need or want of the basic facts, must sift through stacks of articles and reports. It is for these persons that we offer this booklet in the hope that it does clearly present an overview of the major changes that have already occurred, their causes, and current events which will result in even more change.  If additional information is desired, I encourage you to contact EIA's National Energy Information Center.  They are available to answer your questions and to provide you with relevant products, services, and publications.

Sincerely,

Jay E. Hakes
Administrator
Energy Information Administration

Publication Information

This publication is available free of charge from the National Energy Information Center at the following address:

National Energy Information Center (NEIC)
Energy Information Administration, EI-30
Forrestal Building, Room 1F-048
Washington, DC 20585

(202) 586-8800
(202) 586-0727 (fax)
TTY: (202) 586-1181
E-mail: infoctr@eia.doe.gov

Much of the information contained in this booklet was excerpted from the report entitled The Changing Structure of the Electric Power Industry: An Update, which was published in December 1996 by the Office of Coal, Nuclear, Electric and Alternate Fuels in the Energy Information Administration (EIA). The EIA is the independent statistical and analytical agency within the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). The information contained herein should not be construed as advocating or reflecting any policy position of DOE or of any other organization.

For information regarding general energy information questions or copies of publications, contact EIA's National Energy Information Center, by phone on (202) 586-8800 or via Internet at infoctr@eia.doe.gov. Or browse through EIA's website at www.eia.gov to search for information, to view and download reports, to download EIA data and analysis applications, and to find out about new EIA information products and services.