PSC Wisconsin issues strategic energy assessment

From a media release issued by the Public Service Commission:

The PSC prepares a strategic energy assessment every two years to evaluate the state’s current and future energy demands, how those demands will be met and the reliability of the electrical system over the next seven years. The report is based on data and information collected in 2007 and 2008 from Wisconsin utilities and power cooperatives.

The PSC is looking for the public and energy stakeholders to comment on the draft report before December 11, 2008. Comments will be included in the final Energy 2014 which will be issued early 2009. Comments can be provided in the following ways:
• At the public hearing to be held in late fall of 2008;
• Electronically at the PSC website (http://psc.wi.gov/) by clicking on the “Strategic Energy Assessment” button on the left side of the webpage; or
• By letter addressed to Docket # 5-ES-104, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, P.O. Box 7854, Madison, Wisconsin 53707-7854.

Among several other conclusions found in the SEA are:
• New electricity generation will reduce Wisconsin’s reliance on the currently congested transmission grid connections to Illinois, while maintaining a robust planning reserve margin through 2014.
• Significant approved new generation coming online is expected to keep planning reserve margins near or above 19 percent through 2012. As of right now, based on already approved construction, the planning reserve margin for 2014 is expected to be nearly 12 percent. This number is expected to increase as more energy efficiency is implemented and new generation is proposed.
• Transmission planning may show that more extra high voltage lines are needed to bring wind generation to Wisconsin.
• That energy efficiency, conservation, and load control will play an important role reducing Wisconsin’s energy costs and environmental impacts.