46-3A-2. Filing and approval of an integrated resource plan.

On or before January 31, 1992, and at least every three years thereafter as may be determined by the commission, each utility shall file with the commission an integrated resource plan as described in this chapter.#

Not more than 60 days after a utility has filed its plan, the commission shall convene a public hearing on the adequacy of the plan. At the hearing any interested person may make comments to the commission regarding the contents and adequacy of the plan. After the hearing, the commission shall determine whether:#

1. (1)

   The utility’s forecast requirements are based on substantially accurate data and an adequate method of forecasting;#

2. (2)

   The plan identifies and takes into account any present and projected reductions in the demand for energy which may result from measures to improve energy efficiency in the industrial, commercial, residential, and energy-producing sectors of the state; and#

3. (3)

   The plan adequately demonstrates the economic, environmental, and other benefits to the state and to customers of the utility, associated with the following possible measures and sources of supply:#

   1. (A)

      Improvements in energy efficiency;#

   2. (B)

      Pooling of power;#

   3. (C)

      Purchases of power from neighboring states;#

   4. (D)

      Facilities which operate on alternative sources of energy;#

   5. (E)

      Facilities that operate on the principle of cogeneration or hydro-generation; and#

   6. (F)

      Other generation facilities and demand-side options.#

Within 120 days after the filing of each integrated resource plan, the commission shall approve and adopt an integrated resource plan.#