On the usefulness of quantitative safety goals for state regulation of energy systems

The potential usefulness of quantitative safety goals for energy systems in the State of California is evaluated. Five energy-related risk issues, previously dealt with by state regulatory agencies, are examined for the role played by risk in decision-making and the possible role that quantitative safety goals might have played. Several other energy-related risk situations are identified and briefly discussed. It is concluded that quantitative safety goals do not appear to be needed for risk management of energy systems in California. However, there does appear to be a role for a central office of risk management in the State governmental structure. Such an office would provide a reference and evaluation service for other agencies. The potential usefulness of establishing threshold levels of risk for different kinds of action is also noted.