Consider the arguments for and against a new power plant. It will increase the supply of power to the state’s customers and lower their energy bills through competition. It will retain businesses and jobs that are on the verge of leaving the state due to high power costs. At the same time, the plant will increase pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. How does this plant fit within the state’s new campaign to expand alternative energy production and create sustainable “green” jobs? Should regulators evaluate the environmental impact locally or on the cumulative impact of all existing and proposed power plants in the state or region? Does the proposed plant conform to the state’s long-term energy plan? Regulators must answer these questions as they work to determine: Where does the public interest lie?

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