The recent U.S. election could potentially lead to major changes in energy policies, with new leadership expected to reshape key incentives and priorities. These shifts might affect how businesses approach energy procurement, renewable projects, and sustainability efforts.
Here’s what these potential changes could mean and how businesses can prepare.Understanding the Inflation Reduction Act
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) was designed to accelerate the transition to clean energy, offering financial incentives like the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and the Production Tax Credit (PTC). These programs have significantly reduced the costs of renewable energy projects, making solar, wind, and other clean energy technologies more accessible to businesses.
If the new Trump administration revisits the IRA, changes to renewable incentives could occur, shifting focus toward domestic energy sources like natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG).
How Policy Changes Could Reshape the Energy Market
Businesses that depend on IRA incentives for renewable projects may need to adapt to these potential changes. Those with renewable energy projects in progress should prioritize completing them now to secure available benefits before any reforms take effect. Acting promptly can help safeguard investments and maximize current opportunities.
If IRA incentives are changed, the impact will likely vary across energy sectors. Here are a few examples of what we could see:
• Renewables (Solar and Wind): These sectors rely heavily on ITC and PTC renewable energy incentives to offset development costs. If those incentives change, businesses may need to find alternative funding or adjust their project strategies.
• Nuclear Energy: As a low-carbon energy source, nuclear energy is gaining attention, with private-sector investments driving innovations like small modular reactors. However, widespread adoption may hinge on overcoming cost barriers and regulatory challenges.
• Natural Gas and LNG: A stronger focus on LNG exports could contribute to market volatility, potentially impacting domestic natural gas prices, depending on supply-demand dynamics.
The Role of State-Level Policies
Even if federal policies change, state-level renewable energy mandates can provide stability. Many states have Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) that call for a certain percentage of energy to come from renewable sources. These standards often include additional incentives, giving businesses opportunities to continue advancing their renewable goals despite federal changes.
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State-regulated utilities may also provide unique programs, such as special tariffs or incentives, to support renewable energy adoption. Leveraging these state-level opportunities can help businesses sustain progress, even as federal priorities shift.
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Energy Advisory Strategies to Manage Market Changes
Having a flexible energy strategy is essential, no matter what. Pilot Energy’s energy advisory services help businesses adapt to evolving policies by offering tools and solutions to stay ahead, like:
• Demand Response Programs: These programs allow businesses to adjust energy usage based on market conditions, reducing costs during peak demand periods.
• Behind-the-Meter Solutions: On-site energy generation like solar panels helps businesses reduce reliance on external energy suppliers while enhancing energy security.
• Energy Efficiency Upgrades: Cutting energy consumption not only lowers costs but also reduces exposure to policy changes tied to energy production.
For example, businesses planning solar projects under current IRA renewable energy incentives should also consider complementary technologies, like battery storage or other options, if incentives change. Regardless of the technology, the goal remains the same: optimizing energy procurement while managing costs effectively.
About Pilot Energy
Founded in 2001, Pilot Energy is an unbiased and independent energy procurement advisor that empowers leaders to confidently know when, where, and how much energy to purchase by leveraging our unique blend of industry knowledge and innovative digital platforms. Putting our know-how to work daily, we drive clarity and control in decision-making and take pride in providing unparalleled personalized service. Guiding businesses with strategic innovation while committing to sustainable solutions.
Ready to refine your energy procurement strategies with expert energy advisory services? Schedule a free consultation from Pilot Energy today!
