A well-working market that prices conservation as a source of electrical energy faces serious legal challenges from power producers.

"Over the past few years, the federal government has nurtured the growth of an odd kind of player in the energy markets: companies that recruit consumers to unplug themselves when electricity use is high, in exchange for a price break.

The companies have been embraced by electric companies and system operators who say they have helped make service more reliable, and even helped avoid rolling blackouts during heat waves.

The approach has also lowered costs for all customers, experts and executives say, as utilities have needed to buy less of the most expensive power to meet peak needs."

Diane Cardwell and Matthew L. Wald report for the New York Times November 26, 2014. [2]