Policies that Work: How to Land on a Low Carbon Energy Future

Energy is used in every part of the global economy�"powering our homes, businesses, factories, and cars. Meeting our country’s (and indeed, the world’s) climate commitments therefore means reducing emissions from every sector. Smart energy policy can drive down greenhouse gas emissions quickly and affordably, while stimulating innovation and economic growth. Alternatively, poorly-designed energy policy, no matter how well-intentioned, can increase pollution, lock-in dirty technologies, waste money, and prevent us from meeting our climate goals. Because the energy industry is capital-intensive, and energy infrastructure is built to last for decades, it is crucial to get these policies right the first time. So which policies will actually make a meaningful impact in reducing emissions, and how can they be designed to maximize their benefits? This talk will discuss three types of energy policies and how they can be structured and implemented to serve their intended purpose. It will conclude with a list of the world’s key climate and energy policies, and highlight a handful of real-world examples.