The future of energy is a profound question facing our country now. We are dealing with unprecedented change, including the shale gas revolution, climate concerns, and smart grid-related new technology deployment that will require investments reaching hundreds of millions of dollars per company. The utility industry’s investment in new technology has not been commensurate with other major industries in our economy, and is driving the need for government support. This special report features observations from both government agency and private industry experts about what the federal government is doing to support the transformation of the U.S. energy system now, and opportunities for the future.

This Energy Central Special Report covers the future of U.S. energy policy, taxation, regulation and other matters for the period immediately following the Nov. 6 election and prior to the possible implementation of the terms of the so-called fiscal cliff as early as Jan. 1, 2013.

The California Public Utilities Commission recently took steps toward implementing its new RPS law, requiring the state to generate 33% renewable energy by 2020. A new IHS briefing assesses the impact of this legislation and the progress California utilities are making toward reaching this target.

Read about the multiplicity of computer and communications systems & how they must be protected against threats from those who would do harm to electric, natural gas and water distribution systems.