Energy Choices in Delaware

Jack Markell has posted an op-ed he wrote about the energy choices facing Delaware. Three proposals have been presented for electric generation: coal gasification, natural gas and wind power. Delaware's Electric Utility Retail Customer Supply Act of 2006 (EURSCA) directs four state agencies to review the proposals: the Public Service Commission (PSC), the Department of National Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), the Controller General’s Office and the Office of Management and Budget.
The criteria for evaluating the proposals include cost, feasibility, environmental impact and price stability, which has to be considered in light of expected measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions:

I recommend that as the PSC and the other agencies evaluate the various proposals for a new power facility in Delaware, they strongly consider the importance of price stability, new technology, and reductions in environmental impact (especially greenhouse gas emissions). They should take a long-term view of cost-effectiveness, considering not only today’s business environment but the business environment in which these facilities will operate during their entire functioning life.

In other words, we can expect the cost of coal-generated electricity to rise significantly over the life of a new power plant. Let's hope our regulators understand the implication and act accordingly.