Policy Options
This section contains objective information about public policies that may facilitate the use of alternative energy technologies. Each policy is briefly described. After each description, the likely advantages and disadvantages of the policy are laid out as "Arguments For" and "Arguments Against." The lists of arguments are not exhaustive, nor do they represent the views of the U.S. Department of Energy or the National Renewable Energy Laboratory. They are intended solely to be illustrative of varying perspectives. Endorsement of these viewpoints is not intended and should not be inferred.
Policy descriptions are organized as follows: buildings, electricity, and financial incentives.
For information about current state policies related to energy efficiency, see the Alliance to Save Energy's State Energy Efficiency Index.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Energy Analysis Office has developed various models and tools that can assist in learning more about energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies and their uses. Most of these tools can be applied on a global, regional, local, or project basis.
The Alternative Fuels Data Center sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy's Clean Cities and Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct) fleet programs, provides a listing of state and federal incentives and policies related to alternative fuels.