Exact welfare measurement for double-log demand with partial adjustment

This paper demonstrates that a double-log demand with partial adjustment (DLPA) is consistent with the theory of consumer utility maximization. It offers an approach for calculating the compensating variation (CV), the exact welfare effect of a change in a price series when a DLPA is employed. Significant bias may result if the CV is based on a static double-log demand when a DLPA function is appropriate. We revisit a recent study of demand for gasoline in the U. S., finding that the CV based on the static double-log would overstate the welfare effect of a 6-month temporary gasoline tax by 7.5%.