In Nevada, the Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN) supervises and regulates the operation and maintenance of utility services such as electricity, water and sewer, natural gas, rail safety, renewable energy, and telecommunications in the state. PUCN regulates the electric operations of Sierra Pacific Power Company, and Nevada Power Company to ensure that customers receive reliable service at just and reasonable rates. PUCN also oversees gas pipelines in a pipeline safety partnership between PUCN and the United States Department of Transportation Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration Office of Pipeline Safety. In addition, PUCN is charged with the implementation of Nevada’s Renewable Portfolio Standard, including the administration of Portfolio Energy Credits, and the implementation of Net Metering in Nevada, and various renewable energy programs by public utilities.
The Nevada State Office of Energy ensures the wise development of the state’s energy resources in harmony with the local community economic needs. The office also promotes the renewable energy production, energy efficiency and conservation, and exportation of Nevada’s natural resources.
Further, the Nevada Division of Minerals administers programs and activities to promote, advance, and protect mining, development, and production of petroleum and geothermal resources in Nevada. The division’s responsibilities include permitting, inspecting, and monitoring all oil, gas, and geothermal drilling activities on both public and private lands in Nevada. Generally, it is the staff of the division who actually monitors the production of oil, gas, and geothermal resources. The objectives of the division include:
- to assist, promote ,and protect the interests of the mining, oil and gas, and geothermal industries;
- to conduct activities for the development and production of the state’s mineral resources for the benefit and welfare of the people of Nevada; and
- to provide for an equitable and balanced use of the public lands and wise use and management of the state’s mineral resources.
The Nevada Department of Conservation and Natural Resources conserves, protects, manages, and enhances the state’s natural resources and thereby provides the highest quality of life for Nevada’s citizens and visitors.
