Economic Analysis of Healthy Air Act Released

The bill, passed during the 2005 legislative session, required that an economic analysis of the impacts be done. The report [pdf] has just been released. Key findings (via the Capital):

"By joining the program, Maryland would cut emissions by about 10 percent. From 2010 to 2025, that would amount to 60 million tons less in carbon dioxide emissions."

"Profits from making electricity would decrease by 13 percent in 2010 and by 12 percent in 2025. Individual company breakdowns weren't calculated."

"Electricity demand would decrease by 1.5 percent in 2010 and by 3 percent in 2025. That leads to average annual residential electricity bills dropping $22 in 2010. The price of electricity wouldn't be affected."

"There would be a minor positive effect on the overall state economy."