The Electric Market Research Foundation (EMRF) was formed last week, offering additional research efforts in the study of restructuring electricity markets. This new foundation is offering unbiased research of ISO/RTO structure, in contrast to the numerous studies that have been done by the different sides of the debate.

“The Electric Markets Research Foundation intends to address this by supporting research by academics and industry experts on major electric market issues including customer rates, reliability and service,” said Bruce Edelston, EMRF President. While there is plenty of research on the actual debate of free versus regulated markets, he argues that there has been little analysis done on the pure operation of the markets.

Around 20 years ago, some regions of the country set up deregulated markets. Other regions maintained the traditional, vertically-integrated markets where the grid was owned by the federal government. Studies that have done in the past have looked at what models produced lower rates for consumers. The EMRF says that their results depended on what side the researchers were on.

The group will fund research at the academic level that looks at the two models of electricity markets. The foundation itself will evaluate the research done, looking at benefits to customers and the economy. The group will be directed by a board of independent members.

Matthew Faulkner
Business Analyst
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BidURenergy, Inc.