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Abstract

It is unusual for a product to be purchased without the purchaser having prior knowledge about its origins and method of production. However, one important exception to this is electricity. Electricity is taken for granted when a machine is plugged in or a light is switched on. However, it is being bought, when the machine or light is turned on, and most people know nothing about its origins. As more and more consumers become aware of the environmental issues relating to electricity production and use, and the electricity market becomes more deregulated, consumers are likely to exercise their buying power and more 'green electricity' (i.e. electricity that has been produced from renewable energy sources and so is less harmful to the environment) will be demanded. Cities can play three roles in promoting 'green electricity': as consumers, as producers, and as promoters, incitors or legislative bodies. Stroud District Council in the UK put up a call for tenders in order to purchase renewable electricity.

Keywords: Effects of the Liberalisation of Energy Markets on Local Authorities; General approach

This case study was prepared by Energie-Cités in co-operation with Stroud District Council. It received funding from the ALTENER Programme of DGXVII of the European Commission.