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 begun research for the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) and it will be completed in the first quarter of 2008. 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 interim copy of the Integrated Resource Plan. This is a draft version that will be reviewed by the Power Supply Task Force and the public before the report is finalized. NOTE: this .pdf document is 4.82 MB so allow extra time for downloading depending on your connection speed.
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 is working 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 will be evaluated in the Integrated Resource Plan.
How will the final decision be made on Columbia’s future power supply?
After the draft report has been reviewed by the public and the Power Supply Task Force, a final copy will be submitted to the city. The task force will make their recommendations 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. The Columbia City Council makes the final decisions on matters involving Columbia Water & Light.
There was a public meeting held by the Power Supply Task Force on November 28, 2007.
Transcript of the November 28 public meeting. (in a .pdf file)
Copy of the Burns and McDonnell power point presentation (in a .pdf file)
Minutes
Draft of 2008 Renewable Energy Report: The draft is being reviewed by the Water & Light Advisory Board and the Energy and Environment Commission. It will be scheduled for a public hearing with the City Council in March/April.
Renewable Energy Video - Download the renewable energy video that broadcast on the city's government access channel in December 2006.
Memorandum of Understanding with Associated Electric Cooperative Inc. for Wind Generated Renewable Energy - July 31, 2006 memo to City Council
Agreement with Ameresco Inc. for the purchase of electricity from a landfill gas plant - July 31, 2006 memo to City Council
Renewable Energy Ordinance - Approved by voters November 2004
Approved list of renewable resources for Columbia
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