Electric Markets Research Foundation

The Electric Markets Research Foundation (EMRF) is a nonprofit organization focused on funding research related to electric market issues in the United States. It was established in 2012.

Purpose

The foundation's primary goal is to support credible expert research on various electric utility market structures. This includes examining the experiences with traditional regulated models, where utilities have an obligation to serve all customers within a defined area, and centralized market models, where generation is bid into a central market, and customers have a choice of electric supplier[1].

Activities

EMRF has been involved in commissioning studies by academics and experts to analyze the operations of both traditional regulated utilities and centralized market models. These studies aim to provide insights into the effectiveness and challenges of retail choice in electricity markets, including how it affects power supply reliability and costs[1].

Controversy

There have been criticisms regarding EMRF's connections. It has been described as a utility front group, with its principals having close ties to major energy companies like Southern Co. and Berkshire Hathaway Energy[3].

Financials

EMRF files annual tax returns, which are publicly available. These reports include details about its financial operations and funding activities[4][5].

Role in Electricity Market Research

Through its funded research, EMRF contributes to the understanding of electricity market dynamics and policy implications. Its work is part of a broader conversation on how electricity markets are evolving, particularly in response to regulatory changes and consumer demands[1].