Improvements Still Needed in Federal Energy Data Collection, Analysis, and Reporting

A review was conducted of actions affecting Federal energy data collection, analysis, and reporting, as well as an identification and discussion of current major energy data problems. GAO had previously reported on the need to improve Federal efforts in these areas. The adequacy of Federal energy data continues to be a controversial subject.

Many basic problems continue to persist. New energy data collection efforts for the most part have been piled on top of old efforts, and efforts for improved coordination have yet to show much success. GAO recommended that a Department of Energy and Natural Resources be established. This agency would have an independent data collection component and would offer the best long-term organizational solution to energy problems, including energy data problems. In the interim, the Federal Energy Administration could be strengthened to make it a more credible and objective focal point for Federal energy data efforts.