Our Research
In recent years, Houston has emerged as a nationwide leader in expanding its production and use of clean energy. The City of Houston has adopted strong, energy-saving building codes, ramped up purchases of renewable energy, and begun laying the groundwork for widespread adoption of electric cars – all steps that have jump-started the area’s transition toward a clean energy economy. However, Houston still has a great deal of untapped potential to save energy and avoid pollution. This report illustrates how Houston can build on its current momentum through a number of clean energy technologies, including net-zero energy home construction, rooftop solar installations and electric vehicles (EVs).
(November 2011)In early November 2011, California passed the major milestone of installing more than 1,000 megawatts of rooftop solar power capacity -- more than all but five nations in the world. This success is the result of an innovative policy effort, launched in 2007, to make solar technology accessible to everyday Californians. As 2011 winds down, we are approaching the halfway point of this policy initiative. In Building a Solar Future, we take a closer look at the progress the program has achieved.
(November 2011)Privatized traffic law enforcement systems are spreading rapidly across the United States. As many as 700 local jurisdictions have entered into deals with for-profit companies to install camera systems at intersections and along roadways to encourage drivers to obey traffic signals and follow speed limits. This report evaluates deals that cities have struck with private companies for traffic law enforcement systems, noting how they sometimes prevent local governments from acting in the best interests of their citizens.
(October 2011)Maryland electricity consumers are beginning to reap the benefits of the state’s ambitious efforts to improve energy efficiency and measures to cut peak demand. Consumers are saving money and avoiding paying for expensive new infrastructure projects, while employers have been able to increase their competitiveness and hire new staff. A Smart Solution documents these benefits, and makes recommendations on how to further strengthen efficiency measures so that the state achieves the goals of EmPOWER Maryland.
(October 2011)Tax-increment financing (TIF) is a popular tool used by local governments to secure revenue for development projects. Beyond its legitimate uses, it can be misused to spend taxpayer money without accountability, transparency, or democratic oversight. This report describes the dangers posed by TIF, and sets out principles to ensure its proper use.
(October 2011)