Glad to see this in MN*: "Similar to electric utilities [longstanding process], gas utilities will need to periodically submit plans showing load forecasts under various scenarios and how they intend to meet that demand in a way that’s safe, reliable, and affordable — and in line with the state’s policies." *despite how "the final rules missed opportunities to gather important data [e.g.,] utilities will have to disclose potential new infrastructure investments but not the costs of replacing existing gas distribution systems, representing a significant portion of their spending."
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission voted last month to require long-range resource planning from the state's three largest gas utilities. These plans will allow regulators to determine whether natural gas investments will be sensible in an uncertain future. "Gas resource planning is an attempt to provide the commission and other stakeholders with a picture of potential futures... Saving customer dollars and keeping rates low is something planning can facilitate," said Fresh Energy's Joe Dammel. Get the scoop from Energy News Network!
"growth of natural gas 'is at odds with, I think, a lot of the emerging policy concerns about the energy transition, customer preference and changes to the marketplace,' ” --Joe Dammel