Overlapping authorities in U.S. energy policy

Overlapping intergovernmental authorities explain much of the complexities in U.S. energy policy, by accounting for limited powers, uncertain autonomy, cooperation and conflict, inter-state differences, and intersecting policies. Among the implications of overlapping authority are polycentric policymaking venues, direct and indirect policy effects, and energy system governance. Overlapping authority provides a framework for understanding the intersecting roles of national, state, and local governments in energy policy.