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In Hawaii, the State Public Utilities Commission has established an Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) process which requires utilities to forecast future demand for electric power and thoroughly analyze ways to meet that demand efficiently and reliably at the lowest reasonable cost. Some important aspects of the IRP process are as follows:
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The IRP process is thorough because it analyzes and assesses many different ways to meet the forecasted demand from both sides of the meter. Renewable energy resources are considered both on the utility (supply) side and the customer (demand) side of the meter.
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The IRP process considers impacts on not only direct costs but also the utility's customers, the environment, culture, community lifestyles, the State's economy, and society.
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The IRP process is a public process in which an advisory group participates with the utility throughout all the planning. The public is also encouraged to participate at community meetings that will be announced.
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The IRP process is flexible. The process results in a 20-year integrated resource plan and a 5-year implementation action plan, which is evaluated on a regular basis to address changes in consumer needs and technology developments.
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