Horizontal Equity Effects in Energy Regulation

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists
Year: 2019
Volume: 6
Issue: S1
Pages: S209 - S237

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

Choices in energy regulation, particularly whether and how to price externalities, can have widely different distributional consequences both across and within income groups. Traditional welfare theory focuses largely on effects across income groups; such "vertical equity" concerns can typically be addressed by a progressive redistribution of emissions revenues. In this paper, we review alternative economic perspectives that give rise to equity concerns within income groups, or "horizontal equity," and suggest operational measures. We then apply those measures to a stylized model of pollution regulation in the electricity sector. In addition, we look for ways to present the information behind those measures directly to stakeholders. We show how horizontal equity concerns might overshadow efficiency concerns in this context.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:ucp:jaerec:doi:10.1086/701192
Journal Field
Environment
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25