1. Course Introduction Text

Course Title: Introduction to Alternative and Renewable Energy Regulations

Subtitle: Navigating U.S. Federal and State Regulatory Frameworks for the Clean Energy Transition

Level: Introductory to Intermediate

Duration: 6–7 modules (self-paced)

Course Description

The clean energy sector is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world—but its growth is fundamentally shaped by regulation. From the Inflation Reduction Act and its recent modifications under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act to state-level renewable portfolio standards and permitting requirements, understanding the regulatory landscape is essential for anyone working in or entering the energy field.

This course provides a structured, practical introduction to the laws, regulations, and policy frameworks governing alternative and renewable energy in the United States. You will learn how federal agencies like FERC, DOE, and EPA interact with state commissions and local authorities to shape the energy market. The course covers key regulations affecting solar, wind, hydrogen, geothermal, biomass, and energy storage, as well as permitting processes, tax incentives, renewable energy credits (RECs), and power purchase agreements (PPAs).

Taught by an instructor who works daily as a Petroleum Engineer at the Railroad Commission of Texas—one of the oldest and most influential energy regulatory bodies in the United States—this course offers an insider’s perspective on how energy regulation works in practice. You will leave with the ability to interpret regulatory requirements, evaluate compliance obligations, and understand how policy changes create both risks and opportunities for energy businesses.

What You Will Learn

• The structure of U.S. energy regulation: federal, state, and local roles and responsibilities
• Key legislation: Federal Power Act, PURPA, Energy Policy Act, Inflation Reduction Act, and recent amendments
• Regulatory agencies: FERC, DOE, EPA, state public utility commissions, and the Railroad Commission of Texas
• Permitting and siting processes for renewable energy projects (solar, wind, storage)
• Tax incentives, investment tax credits (ITC), production tax credits (PTC), and their recent policy changes
• Renewable Energy Credits (RECs), carbon markets, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
• Environmental compliance requirements for energy projects
• How to read, interpret, and apply energy regulations in professional practice

Who This Course Is For

• Energy professionals and project developers who need to understand regulatory requirements
• Attorneys and compliance officers working in energy law
• Government employees and regulators seeking broader context on energy policy
• Graduate students in energy policy, environmental law, or engineering
• Investors and business strategists evaluating clean energy opportunities

2. Course Outline

Module 1: Overview of the U.S. Energy Regulatory Landscape

Module 2: Federal Energy Legislation and Policy History

Module 3: State-Level Regulation: Portfolio Standards, Permitting, and Siting

Module 4: Incentives and Financial Mechanisms: Tax Credits, RECs, and PPAs

Module 5: Environmental Compliance and Regulatory Intersection

Module 6: Current Policy Developments and Industry Outlook

Module 7: Practical Skills: Reading and Applying Energy Regulations