Electricity Supply: Utility Demand-Side Management Programs Can Reduce Electricity Use.

According to the Department of Energy DOE, to meet electricity demand in 2000, the nation may need more than 100 new large power plants. Because utility-sponsored programs promoting more efficient electricity use, called demand-side management DSM programs, can help avoid the costs and environmental concerns associated with power plants, the Chairman, Environment, Energy, and Natural Resources Subcommittee, House Committee on Government Operations, asked GAO to examine 1 the potential for utility-sponsored DSM programs to reduce future electricity demand 2 impediments to the effectiveness of DSM programs and 3 efforts by utilities, states, and federal power marketing agencies to encourage efficient electricity use. MM