Focus Area:
Regional Energy and Economic Modeling

The ability to model economic efficiency and feasibility of state and federal regulatory proposals - or even voluntary initiatives - is also essential for the adoption and implementation of sound, cost-effective emission control strategies. NESCCAF has developed a Northeast MARKAL (NE-MARKAL) energy system model encompassing the six New England states which will provide NCASP with a powerful tool to plan for its current policy goals and other programs that may be required to maintain and improve air quality in the region, promote cleaner, more efficient energy use and to foster energy security.   Several regional policy initiatives under consideration at present encompass states beyond New England alone.  

The ability to characterize the entire Northeast power market from New England through New York and the Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Maryland power pool (PJM) is needed to accurately assess the potential benefits of programs within this broader region.   The expansion of NE-MARKAL to encompass Delaware, New Jersey, and New York - the very region that has announced its intention to implement a regional power sector cap and trade program for CO₂ - will thus be a key focus over the next year.