The regulatory framework is at least as important as subsidies for renewable energy. Two main types of regulatory policies have been used to open the grid to renewables. One guarantees price, another ensures market share through government mandated targets or quotas. They are applied in order to give renewable energy a considerable role in the electricity generation and transport fuel markets. In segregated partial-markets, competitive bidding for renewable energy concessions and renewable energy or green energy tradable certificates also constitutes mandated market policies. In some cases (e.g. off-grid areas where previously no market exist) policy must actually organize markets and the necessary institutional development.
Specific regulatory policy instruments are:
Policy Databases
IEA Policies and Measures Database - This database provide information on renewable energy policies searchable by country, policy type and policy target.
International Energy Agency (IEA) Global Renewable Energy Policies and Measures Database