Certified Energy Manager Practice Exam

What type of policy does PURPA support?

1. Fossil fuel reliance

2. Energy conservation

3. Energy cogeneration and alternative production

4. Coal mining regulations

The correct answer is: Energy cogeneration and alternative production

The correct answer highlights that PURPA, or the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act, strongly supports energy cogeneration and alternative production. This federal law was enacted in 1978 with the purpose of promoting energy conservation and the use of renewable sources of energy. By encouraging the development of small power producers, particularly those utilizing renewable resources and cogeneration technologies, PURPA aims to diversify the energy supply and increase competition in the energy market. Energy cogeneration, specifically, refers to the simultaneous production of electricity and useful thermal energy from the same energy source, maximizing the efficiency of energy use. Alternative production encompasses a variety of renewable and nontraditional sources of energy production that are designed to reduce dependency on fossil fuels and promote sustainability. The focus of PURPA on these areas is part of a wider effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and foster a cleaner energy future, understanding the importance of diverse and sustainable energy sources in addressing environmental concerns and energy supply stability.