Integrated Regional Resource Planning (IRRP)

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Integrated Regional Resource Planning (IRRP)

Integrated Regional Resource Planning (IRRP) is a process where local stakeholders collaborate in the development of integrated solutions for maintaining a reliable supply of electricity to Ontario communities.

The objective is to develop a long-term electricity plan for a given area that considers all options, including conservation, distributed generation, large-scale generation, and transmission and distribution.

Plans are tailored to the unique electricity needs of the community. In areas characterized by low or slow growth, for example, conservation initiatives may be the prudent course of action. Areas with high growth in electricity demand may require power system reinforcements, coupled with conservation and local generation. The plans must also account for aging power system infrastructure, and ensure coordination of asset renewal and growth trends in individual communities.

Although these plans look out over a 20-year period, they also identify short-term requirements and begin implementation processes, to ensure a reliable electrical supply both tomorrow and in the long-term.

The OPA has been carrying out the IRRP process since its inception in 2005, partnering with local distribution companies (LDCs), transmitters, the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO), and others. As the province’s independent planner, the OPA looks for integrated solutions that will meet the area’s needs over the longer-term, and provide the greatest value to the ratepayers of Ontario.

Read more on Regional Planning at the OPA

North of Dryden Regional Planning
December 2012
Presented at the 6th Annual Aboriginal Energy Forum

Results from the ongoing study of the development of supply needs in the north of Dryden area
and for the Ring of Fire.

See the presentation » (580 KB pdf )

Connecting Remote Communities
December 2012
Presented at the 6th Annual Aboriginal Energy Forum

Considerations for connecting remote communities.

See the presentation » (880 KB pdf )

OPA Perspectives on Regional Planning
March 29, 2012
Presented by Mike Lyle, General Counsel and Vice President, Legal, Aboriginal and Regulatory Affairs, OPA, at the Renewed Regulatory Framework for Electricity Stakeholder Conference, OPA

See the presentation » (112 KB ppt )
Read the transcript » (62 KB doc )