Public input meeting scheduled for Electric Integrated Resources Plan

City of Columbia Utilities is hosting a public input meeting Wednesday, Jan. 28, at the Activity & Recreation Center (ARC), 1701 W. Ash St., from 5:30-7:30 p.m. The information gathered at this meeting will help staff balance competing priorities as they develop the Electric Integrated Resource Plan (IRP).

An Electric Integrated Resource Plan is a long-term strategic roadmap for utilities, detailing how they will meet future energy demand cost-effectively while balancing supply and demand-side resources, considering reliability, environmental impact and customer needs. Information gathered at this meeting will inform the City's consultant on how to frame the new IRP. The Energy Authority (TEA) will be producing the final report, which will be available in the spring. Through partnership with TEA, utilities across the country benefit from an experienced organization that is singularly focused on deriving the maximum value of the utilities' assets.

Three main topics will be discussed: electrical generation sources, internal and external generation, and possible effects of expansion. Attendees will be able to provide thoughts on various energy sources, such as natural gas, nuclear, solar and wind, as well as the differences in renewables and capacity values. Discussions could also include the impacts of greenhouse gas, physical space for City internal facilities and production, and the effects of external production. Table discussions will also provide thoughts on allowing for new business growth within the City's electrical infrastructure.

"An Integrated Resource Plan isn't just a technical document; it's a reflection of our community's values," Utilities Director Erin Keys said. "Whether your priority is environmental sustainability, keeping monthly bills low or ensuring long-term reliability, we need to hear from you. This is a rare opportunity for Columbia residents to directly influence how we power our city for decades to come."

City of Columbia Vision
Columbia is the best place for everyone to live, work, learn and play.

City of Columbia Mission
To serve the public equitably through democratic, transparent and efficient government.