Full Title: A Regulator’s Blueprint for 21st Century Gas Utility Planning
Author(s): Brad Cebulko and Thomas Van Hentenryck
Publisher(s): Advanced Energy United
Publication Date: December 13, 2023
Full Text: Download Resource
Description (excerpt):
The energy sector is in the midst of a profound transition as it shifts away from fossil fuels to renewable energy and a decarbonized economy. As such, natural gas utilities are at risk of stagnating customer growth and declining demand per customer due to competition from cost-effective electrification solutions and decarbonization efforts.
To date, most states have lacked a framework for comprehensive, modern gas planning that allows utility regulators and stakeholders to assess a utility’s infrastructure and resource investment plan, especially in light of rapidly changing technology, market, and policy conditions. Inaccurate plans can lead to over-investment in the system, the wrong mix of resources, or a system unable to meet the demands of customers. Ultimately, gas customers bear most of the risks of inadequate system planning.