Work

Energy transitions of declining energy industries: the effect of renewable portfolio standards on the U.S. coal industry

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the influence of renewable portfolio standards (RPS) on coal industry employment and wages in the top 10 U.S. coal-producing states from 2001 to 2018, with a specific focus on the 2003–2009 RPS adoption period. Employing a difference-in-differences methodology and utilizing data encompassing employment, gas prices, and RPS-related MWh at the quarterly level, our findings reveal that RPS had only temporary and minor adverse effects on coal employment. These effects manifested with a delay of up to four quarters but dissipated within two years. Moreover, RPS had no significant impact on state’s coal sector wages.

Source: Environmental Research Energy

DOI: 10.1088/2753-3751/ad7d11

Authors: Marcello Graziano, Nyakundi Michieka, Marta Musso, Roger Fouquet

Institutions: Ruralis - Institute for Rural and Regional Research, California State University, Bakersfield, Sapienza University of Rome, National University of Singapore, Energy Studies Institute

Language: English

Topic: Sustainable Development and Policies

Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Decent work and economic growth, Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,395