How effective are policies to reduce gasoline consumption? Evaluating a set of measures in Spain

摘要: Abstract Using a panel of 48 provinces for four years we empirically analyze series temporary and permanent policies aimed at curbing fuel consumption implemented in Spain between March June 2011. The first policy was reduction the speed limit highways. second an increase biofuel content fuels used transport sector. third measure decrease 5% commuting regional train fares that resulted two major metropolitan areas reducing their overall fare public transit. results indicate highways lowered gasoline by 2% to 3%, while increased this consumption. This last result is consistent with experimental evidence indicates mileage per liter falls gasolines. As transit fares, do not find significant effect policy. However, specifications including urban cities each province estimated cross-price elasticity demand – as proxy car use respect price within range reported literature. important since one main efficiency justifications subsidizing rests on positive value parameter most estimates literature are quite dated.