NPPD reached out to Nebraskans during February and March in a series of public meetings held across the state presenting NPPD’s Integrated Resources Plan, which outlines the potential future mix of resources for the generation of electricity through 2027.

“We felt that the IRP was well received,” said Tom Kent, Resource Planning and Risk Manager. “The turnout was better than we had hoped for and we had some very good dialogue during the meetings.” Held in Kearney, Lincoln, Scottsbluff, Norfolk, and North Platte, some 60 customers attended the evening meetings and another 40 signed up for information and gave input through a special IRP website.

“The main feedback we received from our customers was to put more emphasis on energy efficiency and renewable energy balanced with maintaining a low- cost electric supply,” he explained. He also pointed out that many expressed concern how the resource alternatives could be impacted by any climate change legislation.

Well over 100 comments were made by customers during the meetings and an additional dozen were received through the website. Kent explained that the District has also met with its wholesale customers who have provided input throughout the process.

A final draft of the IRP will be presented to the NPPD Board in May for approval before being submitted to the Western Area Power Administration this June.