Integrated Resource Planning Explained

Integrated Resource Planning Explained

Energy utilities file integrated resource plans every two years to detailing how they will meet customer demand as well as conservation and renewable requirements.

Every two years, the Utilities and Transportation Commission reviews investor-owned electric and natural gas company resource plans to ensure utilities plan for future energy needs at a low cost to customers.

What is an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP)?

State law (RCW 19.280) requires energy companies to file energy resource plans every two years. These plans detail how utilities will meet customer demand, conservation targets, and renewable energy requirements. Plans predict the resources a company will need to meet demand over a 20-year period. These resources must be acquired at the lowest reasonable cost to the utility and its customers.

What is the UTC’s role?

The UTC reviews IRPs in a public process that includes public comment hearings. The UTC does not approve or reject IRPs. Instead, the commission acknowledges whether a company has complied with state law (WAC 480-100-238 and WAC 480-90-238).

Decisions about the prudency of infrastructure projects or power purchases during are made during rate cases, not the IRP. The IRP process does not result in rate changes; it is an opportunity for the commission to weigh in on a company’s strategy for meeting its service obligations in a least-cost, least-risk manner.

What is the public’s role?

Public participation is essential to effective IRP development. The commission reviews comments submitted during public hearings, in writing, or online at our public comment form.