Collaborative group is delving into Kentucky’s energy issues

In March 2011, members of the Demand Side Management and Renewable Energy Collaborative approved the group’s charter and prepared to delve into energy issues that affect Kentucky.

Using a consensus decision-making process, the collaborative is evaluating and recommending ways to expand deployment of renewable and DSM options, and promote collaboration in implementing those ideas.

The collaborative is made up of representatives of 17 electric cooperatives, three environmental advocacy organizations and other interested stakeholders.

The collaborative's DSM committee is expected to review: EKPC’s current offerings and participation levels in DSM/direct load control programs; best practices in DSM; on-bill financing for DSM investments; revenue impact of DSM programs on distribution cooperatives; rate treatment of DSM programs, including rate design; job-creation potential of energy efficiency programs; and use of home-energy displays and emerging technologies to facilitate energy efficiency.

The Renewable Energy subcommittee is expected to review renewable technologies with the greatest economic viability; methods for cost recovery; impacts on ratepayers; and the treatment of renewable resources in an integrated resource plan.