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Major Reforms in Electricity Pricing: Evidence from a Quasi-Experiment

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  • Xavier Labandeira
  • José M Labeaga
  • Jordi J Teixidó

Abstract

The global energy mix and cost structure of the power industry are experiencing a redefinition. Many countries are revamping electricity-pricing systems to guarantee fixed-cost recovery, often by raising the fixed charge of two-part tariff schemes. However, a key assumption of two-part tariff schemes and associated fixed-cost recoveries is that consumers discriminate fixed from marginal costs. We conduct a quasi-experiment with data from a major electricity price reform recently implemented in Spain and find robust evidence indicating that consumers fail to distinguish between fixed and marginal costs. As a result, policymakers are not achieving the goal of cost recovery.

Suggested Citation

  • Xavier Labandeira & José M Labeaga & Jordi J Teixidó, 2022. "Major Reforms in Electricity Pricing: Evidence from a Quasi-Experiment," The Economic Journal, Royal Economic Society, vol. 132(644), pages 1517-1541.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:econjl:v:132:y:2022:i:644:p:1517-1541.
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    Cited by:

    1. Navajas Fernando, 2023. "Electricity rate structure design in Latin America: Where do we stand? Where should we go?," Asociación Argentina de Economía Política: Working Papers 4676, Asociación Argentina de Economía Política.

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