Electric integrated resource planning (IRP)

An Integrated Resource Plan, (also known as IRP or a resource plan), is a document showing how a utility plans to generate electricity for the next 15 years. The IRP review process allows the Commission and stakeholders the opportunities to examine a utility’s current and planned electricity generation for the next 15 years. The resource plan can affect many things, like electricity rates, the communities where power plants are located, when power plants might be built or retired, electric system reliability, and the environment. The IRP also provides a way for interested people and organizations to review the proposal and offer input.

Once a utility files an IRP, here’s what usually happens next*:

1. Anyone who believes the IRP is incomplete may file comments within 30 days of the plan being filed;

2. Initial comments on the merits of the resource plan are often due four months after the filing;

3. Reply comments, which respond to comments submitted during the initial comment period, are usually due two months after initial comments are received.

4. After reply comments are filed, the Commission hears the matter and make a decision on the plan. 

5. Before the agenda meeting, PUC staff issues briefing papers summarizing the IRP and significant issues raised during the comment periods. The Commissioners then review the record and make a decision on the IRP. 

*These timelines may be subject to change. Make sure to look at the “Notice of Comment” in each IRP docket to find out the exact timelines of each one!