Pigouvian taxes are a traditional solution to negative externalities, and they are often better received by the public than rationing.

• It’s expensive to be poor - the lights turning off a few days before the end of the month will incur even more costs than a higher electricity bill.

• Taxes raise money for other programs, instead of costing money to enforce rationing.

• Higher taxes in general will also help reduce inflation.

• Tax revenue can be spent on stimulus checks to offset the cost for people who use less energy than average.