NRDC, NCLC, and Vote Solar researched the results of rate cases across the US in 2016 and 2017, finding a trend of utilities aggressively proposing fixed charge increases, which Public Service Commissions tended to fully reject or scale back.
Surveyed the tensions between fixed and variable rates, as well as a variety of alternative rate structures, from the perspectives of utilities, consumer advocates, and environmentalists.
Stipulates that when the PUC applies a Lowest Reasonable Cost test, it must consider, among other things, “the cost of risks associated with environmental effects including emissions of carbon dioxide.”
The Minnesota PUC published a 2018 Order establishing a range of $9.05 to $43.06 per short ton of CO2 e, which will be used by 2020 in evaluating and selecting resource options in all commission proceedings.
In 2017, the Colorado Public Utility Commission (PUC) ordered Xcel to use the social cost of carbon Energy Resource Plan (ERP) that would guide utility investments through 2024.
The Commission has put forward a proposed decision requiring utilities to use the IWG’s Social Cost of Carbon estimates for a Societal Cost Test in Integrated Resource Planning.
Sheds light on where state regulators have been legislatively granted the ability to value climate impacts in resource planning.
Describes IRP requirements in three states, Arizona, Colorado, and Oregon, which updated their regulations governing the planning process.
Establishes a Least Cost Procurement mandate, requiring utilities to acquire all cost-effective energy efficiency with input and review from the Energy Efficiency and Resource Management Council.
Requires that electric and gas utilities procure all cost-effective energy efficiency, which requirements the state’s PUC administers on a three-year planning cycle.