INTEGRATED MASTER PLANNING – HOW IT DELIVERS AFFORDABLE AND ACCEPTABLE RESULTS

Utility Master Planning is a complex process involving multiple factors and considerations. Master planning decisions involve understanding the existing system conditions, future system demands, and a strong consideration of the regulatory environment. In addition, most Master Plans have significant financial impacts. Often these financial considerations are postponed until the planning process is in the concluding stages. Questions such as how much will the projects raise customer rates, what is the best way to fund the projects in order to minimize rate payer impacts, and what is acceptable from an affordability standpoint need to be considered. The importance of making sound planning decisions is manifested in the significant financial consequences it can have on stakeholders and customers.