Abstract

Entities involved in the generation of electric power in the United States are subject to regulation by different state and federal agencies. Numerous regulations and laws are in place to protect the environment and ensure fair business practices, stable energy supply, and consumer protection. This article both summarizes the history of electric utility business and environmental regulations in the United States, and discusses the various policies of and roles played by such keys agencies as the U.S. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Nuclear Regulatory Commission, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration.

Keywords: Regulatory agencies; Power generation; Business regulation; Federal Energy Regulatory Commission; Policies; Rulemaking; Electric utilities; Clean Air Act; Sulfur dioxide; Nonutility power producers; NOx; Hazardous air pollutants; OSHA; Nuclear Regulatory Commission; Nuclear waste