Topic:"Public Interest" in M06733

- [22] The Consensus Agreement addressed a number of issues, which were identified in the Board's Final Issues List in this proceeding, and which the Board discusses below. - [23] In a number of previous decisions relating to electricity m...

AI summary The Consensus Agreement addresses issues from the Board's Final Issues List, referencing prior decisions on settlement agreements. The Board emphasizes the thorough pre-hearing process, public interest considerations, and the role of settlement agreements in resolving disputes efficiently.

CONSENSUS AGREEMENTS The Board has been presented with two Consensus Agreements in this matter. The first, E-61, represents an agreement among EfficiencyOne, Consumer Advocate, Small Business Advocate, Affordable Energy Coalition and the E...

AI summary The Board considers two Consensus Agreements (E-61 and E-62) involving multiple stakeholders, including EfficiencyOne, NSPI, and advocacy groups. The agreements reference DSM spending and align with the Board's view that settlement agreements, when supported by all customer classes, serve the public interest. The Board emphasizes transparency in the settlement process, citing prior rulings in Nova Scotia Power Inc. , 2008 NSUARB 140 (CanLII).

- [22] The Consensus Agreement addressed a number of issues, which were identified in the Board's Final Issues List in this proceeding, and which the Board discusses below. - [23] In a number of previous decisions relating to electricity m...

AI summary The Consensus Agreement addresses issues from the Board's Final Issues List, with the Board emphasizing its support for settlement agreements. The Board highlights that 80% of the rate hearing process occurs pre-hearing, including evidence submission and responses to Information Requests. The Board assures the public that agreements supported by all customer classes are in the public interest and that members have thoroughly reviewed materials prior to decisions.

3.5.3.1 Findings [88] The Board notes that the DSM amount of $33,210,000, as set by the Board for 2016, is below DSM spending in each of the last four years. It is also an amount significantly below that recommended in the IRP, and the Boa...

AI summary The Board observes that the 2016 DSM amount of $33,210,000 is below recent spending levels and the IRP recommendation. It considers this amount affordable under Section 79L of the PUA while aligning with ratepayer interests.