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PURA screens first nonwire solutions cycle; flags Westbrook Field transformer project as potential NWS opportunity
Summary
PURA adopted a screening decision for the first nonwire solutions process cycle, accepting the process monitor’s identification of one Eversource transformer replacement (West Brookfield Substation) as a potential nonwire solution solicitation and recommending improvements to annual filings and evaluation criteria.
Authority staff (Mr. Butler) presented the Authority’s screening decision for the first nonwire solutions (NWS) process cycle, describing the annual data filings, grid needs filings and the process monitor’s comments.
Butler explained that United Illuminating’s grid needs were not recommended for competitive solicitation, while the process monitor identified one Eversource project — the transformer replacement at the West Brookfield Substation — as a potential NWS opportunity. The decision recognizes Eversource’s concerns about the project’s near-term time-of-need date and the company’s assessment that a nonwire alternative may not be cost beneficial; the Authority clarified that the ultimate choice of whether to conduct a competitive solicitation remains with Eversource.
The Authority recommended several program improvements for future cycles, including clearer expectations for the format and contents of annual filings, documentation criteria for feasibility evaluations, and better context on how grid needs fit into each company’s broader capital plan. The panel moved and seconded the screening decision and adopted it; Chairman Tom Weil again noted his prior participation in related proceedings and abstained from this docket’s vote.
