The energy industry is both a key to the life that billions seek and America's most significant source of pollution. Environmental problems are the energy industry's most important constraint. This course examines key issues in American energy policy, and searches for ways to resolve or ease the strains which that policy puts upon environmental sustainability. We will review fundamental vocabulary and facts about our energy demands, evaluate sample regulatory orders and statutes and consider legal writings that address many of those elements from the perspective of legal review. Readings will include ethical issues of social justice in siting projects, meeting – or limiting – energy demand, the statutory schemes underlying traditional regulation, and a brief introduction to the wholesale electric markets that are considered in more detail in the follow-up spring semester. Method of evaluation: Mid-term essay; take home final exam and class participation.