Renewable Energy
ECONorthwest performs detailed analyses of the economic impacts of renewable energy using both input-output models and discrete-choice models of consumer behavior. ECONorthwest's recent work has focused on assessing the potential economic effects of wind energy projects in terms of jobs, income, and economic output. In addition to studying direct economic consequences, ECONorthwest has done important research on the potential influence of wind turbines on residential property values. This work has been used in support of applications for several large wind projects in the Pacific Northwest.
ECONorthwest has evaluated the economic effects of policies designed to promote renewable energy. For the State of Oregon, ECONorthwest analyzed the impacts on the state's economy of tax credit and incentive programs for renewable energy and energy conservation. For the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, ECONorthwest developed a discrete-choice equipment purchase model based on data from commercial customers who had bought solar energy equipment. The key purchase drivers resulting from the model were matched with state characteristics to identify those markets that had the greatest potential for commercial solar energy adoptions.
Representative Projects
- Commercial Solar Energy Market Analysis
(Excerpt | PDF, 139K)
National Renewable Energy Lab
Washington, DC - Guidebook on the Economic Benefits of Wind Energy Projects
(Excerpt | PDF, 142K)
Washington State Department of Community, Trade, and Economic Development
Washington - Economic Impacts of the Kittitas Valley Wind Project
(Excerpt | PDF, 57K)
Economic Development Group of Kittitas County
Washington - Economic Impact Analysis of Energy Trust of Oregon Program
(Excerpt | PDF, 224K)
Energy Trust of Oregon
Oregon