How do states adopt energy policies? This study directly examines information exchange among peers, contrasting traditional geographic and ideological models.

We surveyed 112 U.S. energy policy experts to identify key communication channels. Using this data, we then analyzed state-level adoption patterns of renewable portfolio standards (RPS) and electricity deregulation.

Our analysis reveals that peer-to-peer knowledge exchange significantly predicts policy diffusion beyond conventional mechanisms. This approach uncovers new pathways for understanding how ideas spread among decision-makers in similar contexts.

💡 Key Findings: Peer networks matter greatly for energy policy adoption, even when geography or ideology are not direct factors.

📊 Data & Methods: Survey of 112 experts combined with state-level diffusion analysis using logistic regression models.

🔍 Why It Matters: This highlights the importance of understanding knowledge sharing dynamics among professionals in specific fields.