At the West Virginia Law School 2014 Energy Conference, Rich Sedano explored how to balance emissions reductions with compliance costs as states prepare to comply with imminent US Environmental Protection Agency regulations to control greenhouse gases (GHG). He encourages states to develop credible, transparent processes – with broad stakeholder participation and solid evidence/data – which can form a foundation for defensible GHG reduction claims that achieve standards while minimizing costs. As a first step, states should identify energy efficiency measures to date, identify and communicate preferred policy directions to the EPA, as well as ensure effective communication between the public utility commission, distribution companies, and environmental quality agencies. Getting ahead of the curve is critical, as early action likely to be rewarded and will allow for better understanding of problems and challenges associated with the regulations. For more information on preparing for EPA regulations, see the resources listed on slide 19 and visit RAP’s online library.