• A new study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) indicates that the state movement toward electric restructuring (deregulation) has largely stalled. The current count of 24 states that have passed restructuring legislation is essentially the same as last year. This halt is largely attributable to the negative results experienced in the wake of deregulation in California. The report, “A Revised 50-State Status Report on Electric Restructuring and Public Benefits,” is available for $30 (postpaid). Contact ACEEE Publications at 202-429-0063; ace3pubs@ix.netcom.com (e-mail); www.aceee.org (website).

  • The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has awarded a multi-million-dollar contract to the consulting firm Arthur D. Little, Inc. (Cambridge, MA) to advise on the restructuring and commercialization of its electric utility, which is the largest in the Middle East. Saudi Electricity Co. (SEC) provides power to more than 3 1/2 million customers representing more than 80% of the population. The first phase of the contract, for $2 million, will entail the development of a strategic plan for restructuring. If approved, a second, $4 million implementation phase will begin in the fall.

    • Publication date: 04/09/2001