The Electric Utility Commission (EUC) working group has released its recommendations for Austin Energy's Resource, Generation, and Climate Protection Plan to 2030. The plan aims to prioritize clean energy and transition the city off fossil fuels. Although it falls short of achieving carbon-free status by 2030, it sets ambitious goals, including reaching 80% renewable energy and becoming carbon-free by 2035.
The working group's plan includes various initiatives such as 500 MWs of battery storage, 300 MWs of demand response, 750 MWs of local solar, and significant investments in energy savings programs. It also commits to closing down Austin Energy's share of the Fayette coal-fired power plant as quickly as possible. Furthermore, the plan aims to reduce emissions from gas plants by 33% by 2027 and 66% by 2030.
Austin Energy had previously proposed scenarios that heavily relied on hydrogen, but the working group expressed doubts about this technology. The plan explicitly states that Austin Energy should not invest in any combined cycle hydrogen capable plants, as it would increase local pollution and carbon dioxide emissions.
The plan also includes upgrades in transmission infrastructure and studies of new technologies such as reactive power, long-duration storage, geothermal, and fuel cell technology. It emphasizes the need to avoid hydrogen-capable combined cycle plants, as blending hydrogen with gas would increase air pollution.
The decision-making process on Austin Energy's Resource Plan is set to begin at the EUC meeting on February 12. However, Austin Energy has indicated that they need more time to analyze the recommendations, suggesting that a decision will most likely be made at the next EUC meeting on March 18. The issue will also be discussed at the upcoming Austin City Council Austin Energy Oversight Committee on February 27.
The Sierra Club Lone Star Chapter has been actively involved in keeping the public informed and engaged throughout the process. They have encouraged Austin residents to show support for a carbon-free future by attending the public meetings and sending their thoughts to the city council.
As the full city council acts as Austin Energy's board of directors, the new Resource Plan will require their vote, likely to take place in late March. However, depending on the process, this timeline could be extended.
The release of the Austin Energy Zero-Carbon Resource Plan marks a significant step towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future for the city. With its ambitious goals and commitment to reducing emissions, the plan has garnered support from environmental organizations such as the Sierra Club. By prioritizing renewable energy, energy storage, and energy-saving programs, Austin Energy is taking a crucial step towards combating climate change and protecting the environment.
