Government regulation of public utility firms has historically been pervasive and stringent. Today, more flexible forms of incentive regulation are being introduced throughout the world, and barriers to competition are being removed in response to new technological and commercial opportunities. As regulation changes and increased competition arises, numerous research issues arise. For instance, the best forms of incentive regulation must be identified. It is also crucial to assess when competition can supplant regulation entirely, and when residual regulation is needed to supplement antitrust enforcement in order to protect consumers. Regulation outside of the utility sector is also of vital concern. To illustrate, it is important to understand the proper role of government in ensuring consumer health, safety, and privacy, protecting the environment, and promoting macroeconomic financial stability.
Primary Regulation researchers: