In preparation for developing a regional energy plan (link added after Sixth Plan was complete), the Council’s paper describes some of the major issues it believes are important to address; additionally, the Council would like feedback on these issues, as well as suggestions for other topics that are of special concern to the region.
The paper identifies the following key issues:
- Climate change and related policies
- Capacity to meet loads on an annual, daily, hourly, and sub-hourly basis
- Expanding the menu of efficiency and generating resource choices
- Transmission constraints and their impact on electricity markets and resource development
- Power plan interactions with the fish and wildlife program
- Appropriate avoided cost measures for resource decisions
The Council’s power plan is intended to provide the region with a blueprint to a secure and cost-effective energy future. The challenge of balancing the need for energy with the environment is more crucial than ever, and will require rigorous and in-depth analysis of the issues outlined in this paper. Your feedback and suggestions will help to inform the direction and priorities of this important tool to preserve the Pacific Northwest’s livability.
Sincerely,
Steve Crow, Executive Director
