PacifiCorp 2007 Integrated Resource Plan (May 30, 2007)

PacifiCorp – 2007 IRPChapter 3 – The Planning EnvironmentThe geographical areas covered by these sub-regional planning groups are approximately asshown in Figure 3.1 below. In addition to the above groups, California is attempting to coordinatethe overall planning for their state.Figure 3.1 – Sub-regional Transmission Planning Groups in the WECCCGColumbiaGridNTACNorthwest TransmissionAssessment CommitteeCASTEPSouthwest TransmissionExpansion PlanningNTTGNorthern TierTransmission GroupCCPGColorado CoordinatedPlanning GroupSWATSouthwest AreaTransmission StudyHYDROELECTRIC RELICENSINGThe issues involved in relicensing hydroelectric facilities are multifaceted. They involve numerousfederal and state environmental laws and regulations, and participation of numerous stakeholdersincluding agencies, Indian tribes, non-governmental organizations, and local communitiesand governments.The value to relicensing hydroelectric facilities is continued availability of hydroelectric generation.Hydroelectric projects can often provide unique operational flexibility as they can be calledupon to meet peak customer demands almost instantaneously and provide back-up for intermittentrenewable resources such as wind. In addition to operational flexibility, hydroelectric generationdoes not have the emissions concerns of thermal generation. Relicensing or decommissioningof many of PacifiCorp’s projects are nearing completion as Federal Energy RegulatoryCommission (FERC) licenses or Orders are expected to be issued for the majority of the portfolioover the next 1 to 3 years.47