In the annals of American commerce, the exploitation of consumers by monopolistic corporations is a tale as old as time. For generations, these behemoths have wielded their power without restraint, prompting sporadic attempts by our federal government to play the role of a vigilant referee. The latest battleground of anti-competitive abuse? The electric utilities sector – a domain where profit-driven giants are doing all they can to stifle competition in the clean energy realm. Regrettably, their actions are hampering the transition to renewable energy sources in the United States, leaving consumers at their mercy.

Over the past decade, our energy landscape has undergone a significant transformation, witnessing the share of renewable energy in U.S. electricity generation doubling from 10% to 20%. Americans are increasingly aware of their environmental footprint, demonstrating a growing willingness to embrace greener energy sources in their households, particularly if it translates to cost savings. However, consumers face a formidable hurdle – dominant electric utility companies in their regions. These companies either price alternative energy sources out of reach, compelling consumers to remain tethered to them, or ruthlessly quash competition in the clean energy market.

A recent national survey uncovered a startling fact: nearly 85% of solar developers are grappling with delays in interconnecting projects to the electric grid due to “utility noncompliance with interconnection procedures.” These delays translate to ballooning project costs and often lead to project failures, thereby jeopardizing the feasibility of running a solar business. Sadly, the repercussions of these delays are borne by the customers and employees of these enterprises.

The unethical conduct doesn’t end there. Utility companies are notorious for employing their financial might and engaging in clandestine dealings to influence elections and policymakers in favor of fossil fuels. The extent of this influence is so pervasive a solar developer was once told by a lawmaker, “You just have to understand that the utilities are in charge, and you have to do what they ask you to do.”

The power to investigate potential anti-competitive actions by utility corporations’ rests with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). However, this issue has largely escaped the FTC’s scrutiny, manifesting in scattered incidents across the country. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Colorado U.S. Sen. John Hickenlooper and his colleagues recently called on the agency to investigate and intervene.

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In his role as the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee’s Consumer Protection, Product Safety and Data Security Subcommittee, Sen. Hickenlooper is charged with overseeing policies that safeguard consumers. Witnessing Coloradans grappling with soaring heating bills, a staggering 54% higher than in 2021, Sen. Hickenlooper was spurred to address the root causes of these exorbitant costs.

Now, it is incumbent upon the FTC to initiate a thorough investigation and implement stringent actions against deceptive and anti-competitive practices. Timely accountability measures are imperative. Beyond the immediate impact on consumers, resistance to the widespread adoption of clean energy jeopardizes the successful realization of the Inflation Reduction Act – a pivotal legislation aimed at incentivizing financing and deployment of new clean energy projects that substantially cut greenhouse gas emissions.

Though our nation is making strides toward a greener future, the Biden administration must step in promptly to confront these unethical actors in the energy sector. By doing so, we can level the playing field for renewable energy competition and ensure a sustainable energy future for all.

Maya Wheeler is the former executive director of the African Chamber of Commerce in Colorado, and current executive director of the Wezesha Dada Center (WDC). The WDC brings women together and provides technical assistance, support referrals and resources to help women establish businesses, achieve financial independence and improve their overall well-being.