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IRPs show what works for Western customers One of the values of integrated resource plans is that it provides Western with an overview of the strategies and tools customers find most effective for managing their power resources. In 2003, Western received 80 IRPs from individual customers, 40 plans from cooperatives, 70 minimum investment reports and 107 small customer plans. Several positive trends that emerged from the reports included a high interest and demand for renewable energy technologies in all market segments. Requests for education on energy efficiency and renewable energy technologies also increased. Large and small hydropower was the first choice for affordable renewable energy. Wind generation came in second, followed by solar, geothermal and waste-to-energy, respectively. Customers bundled services to improve ratepayer satisfaction and increase revenues, and continued to implement demand-side management efficiency activities and programs. Lighting technologies topped the list of DSM tools. HVAC technologies emphasizing cooling and ventilation were also popular. Energy audits, weatherization and load management rounded out the list of most frequent DSM activities. Cost and reliability are still customers’ highest priority in evaluating resources, but renewable technology showed an ever-increasing influence on both factors. Customers also considered foreign energy dependence, environmental and security issues, developing technologies, affordable options and regulations. |
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23, No. 5
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