IRP Framework

As a regulated electric utility in Hawaii, KIUC is required to periodically develop an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).  The IRP is the result of a process that compares supply-side (i.e. generation) to demand0side (i.e. energy efficiency/conservation/load management) options to determine which options are best to serve the electrical energy needs of KIUC's consumers.  The IRP Framework contains the guidelines that determine the evaluation criteria.

Soon after becoming a member owned electric cooperative, KIUC realized that the guidelines in the existing IRP Framework would not allow KIUC to develop an IRP that fully represented KIUC's member/owner's needs and desires.  As such, KIUC developed and submitted to the PUC for their approval, a "Co-op" Integrated Resource Plan Framework.  The intent was to be allowed to use guidelines reflecting KIUC's cooperative ownership structure.  PUC approval is expected in third quarter 2005.  In the meantime, KIUC is beginning to develop the parts of the IRP that are independent of the framework.  These include load and fuel forecasts, selecting an Advisory Panel, selecting a consultant and developing a benchmarked base year from which forecasted data will be applied.  The IRP is expected to be complete in early 2006.