Electric Supply Information

Columbia, Missouri Power Supply Information

For more information: 573-874-7325 or send an e-mail to WLMAIL@GoColumbiaMo.com

2011 Renewable Energy Report

Integrated Resource Plan Information

The City of Columbia in the process of researching power supply options and efficiency measures through a study called an Integrated Resource Plan.

What is an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP)?

An IRP is a comprehensive approach which takes into consideration how the energy is created, how the energy is transported, its environmental impact, and the benefits of energy efficiency. The engineering firm Burns and McDonnell has submitted the interim report which the Power Supply Task Force is evaluating. After the public meeting, the task force will hold additional meetings and meet with the consultants to finalize the IRP. The study will give Columbia information on how to secure reliable, cost-effective and environmentally sensitive power.

How can I get a copy of the Integrated Resource Plan?

Download the final version of the Integrated Resource Plan. Plans for the future power supply and energy efficiency programs are outlined in the report being reviewed by the Columbia City Council. NOTE: this .pdf document is 2.51 MB so allow extra time for downloading.

What is the Power Supply Task Force?

The Power Supply Task Force was formed by the Columbia City Council to study and make recommendations about Columbia’s future power supply. The committee consists of members of the Water & Light Advisory Board plus four other community members.

What things have to be considered in making the decision on an electric supply?

When making choices about our long-term electric supply, there needs to be a balance between reliability, the cost of the energy, the cost of transmitting the energy and the impact on the environment.

What options are being considered for our future power supply?

The Power Supply Task Force worked with the engineering firm Burns and McDonnell on different traditional and renewable power options, as well as efficiency programs, that might be feasible for Columbia. Public input was collected and reviewed with the consultants before the options were finalized for the study.

How will renewable energy be incorporated into Columbia’s future power supply?

Columbia voters approved a renewable energy standard in 2004. At a minimum, meeting the renewable energy standard will be part of the future power supply projections. In 2008, Columbia will surpass the 2% requirement and will have at least 5% of Columbia’s energy generated from renewable resources. By 2023, the standard calls for 15% of our electric portfolio come from renewable resources. The cost of the renewable energy mandated in the ordinance must not be more than 3% of the cost of electricity derived from non-renewable sources.

How can Columbia reduce the growing need for power consumption?

DSM or demand side management is a term used by the utility industry to refer to curtailing electric demand and energy use. This can be done with programs that cut demand at certain times of the day when electricity is expensive or programs that reduce the overall consumption of electricity. New efficiency programs that have measurable outcomes to reduce future demand have been included in the IRP. The existing programs (energy audits, loans, rebates, Load Management, Energy Star home programs, etc.) are not mentioned in the interim IRP but supply side forecasts have been adjusted to include them.

How will the final decision be made on Columbia’s future power supply?

After public comment has been considered, the Power Supply Task Force will work with Burns and McDonnell to finalize the IRP. The final version, along with the task force recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council. The City Council would need to hold a public hearing on any contracts or new programs before they are voted on and implemented. The Columbia City Council makes the final decisions on matters involving Columbia Water & Light.

How can I communicate with the Task Force?

E-mails can be sent to wlmail@GoColumbiaMo.com or in writing to: Columbia Water & Light, Power Supply Task Force, P.O. Box 6015, Columbia, MO, 65205.