Statement on IRC State of the Markets Report

The following statement, issued by COMPETE Coalition Co-Chairs Federico Peña, former U.S. Energy Secretary, and Don Nickles, former Senator from Oklahoma, comments on the 2009 State of the Markets Report by the ISO/RTO Council (IRC) finding that organized competitive markets are "shattering barriers” for renewable and demand response resources; creating new efficiencies in plant operations; significantly improving grid reliability; sending clear, timely, and transparent pricing signals; and expanding regional planning.

“This report soundly underscores what we’ve been seeing in competitive markets for some time now – increasing development of renewable energy and demand response resources. As our nation confronts difficult economic and environmental challenges, it is vitally important that we leverage these assets to their fullest possibilities and competition is the best way to do that.  

“The organized markets overseen by independent system operators and regional transmission organizations are helping us tap into the incredible potential that renewable energy offers and is creating an environment where innovation is encouraged and embraced. Similarly, demand response programs in the ISOs and RTOs are growing exponentially thanks to the clear and transparent price signals found in competitive markets.

“We couldn’t agree more that organized competitive markets are ‘shattering barriers for renewable and demand response resources’ and it is absolutely vital for our nation’s economy and the environment that we allow these markets to continue to develop and fully mature.”