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Commenters urge PSC to require IRP to expand demand-side programs, EV support and community solar
Summary
Speakers urged inclusion of robust demand-side resources in the IRP: more aggressive demand-response, battery storage, community solar, and stronger utility support for electric-vehicle deployment.
Multiple commenters argued that the IRP sidelines demand-side solutions that could reduce peak needs and avoid building expensive new generation. Karen Kirk (Montanans for Affordable Energy) said Northwestern's report ignored demand-response and battery-storage opportunities that could shave meaningful peak capacity; she cited a summer peak reduction potential of about 121 MW from demand response referenced in a study.
Jesse Terrien urged Northwestern to treat electric vehicles as mainstream rather than an "emerging technology," noting EVs can account for 30% to 50% of household electricity for some drivers and that utilities should provide clearer resources and incentives. Paul Pacini described community solar mechanics and asked that the commission require community/shared solar be considered as a resource in planning.
