Retail rate trends in the US: Fall 2026 update
Among the study’s primary findings were that retail rates had remained relatively stable in most locations, that factors other than data centers had put upward...
CRA’s Market Policy, Design & Competition experts advise utilities on the design and evolution of wholesale and retail markets. As resource mixes change, new large loads emerge, DERs grow, and policy mandates tighten, market rules and competitive structures must adapt to preserve reliability, support investment, and protect customers. CRA helps clients understand how market design choices influence price formation, resource adequacy, customer costs, and competitive behavior.
We draw on extensive experience across North American and European markets and regulatory jurisdictions to support both incremental reforms and major redesign efforts. Our work connects economic theory, operational realities, and stakeholder perspectives, ensuring that market arrangements are analytically robust, implementable, and aligned with long-term system needs.
Our services include:
- Wholesale market design & reform
- Resource adequacy & capacity constructs
- Price formation & scarcity pricing
- Participation models for new technologies
- Retail & large-load competition
- Market power, competition & monitoring support
- Integration of policy objectives
- Stakeholder & regulatory engagement
Please contact energypractice@crai.com for more information.