Energy system in the Far West: Impacts of the National Energy Act of 1978

The impact of the National Energy Act of 1978 (NEA) on state energy systems in Federal Region IX (Arizona, California, Hawaii, and Nevada) is discussed. Data on the demographic and economic character of the region are presented along with an overview of the impact of the NEA on each energy industry in the region. The act's impact on interstate linkages and the reliability of energy supplies is also assessed. It is concluded that the NEA will serve to encourage actions already being taken by many of the utilities, but that it will not effect major changes in existing patterns of energy use.