Fourth Scoping Memo Makes Changes to Phase 2 and Adds a Phase 3 to the Proceeding

Second Phase of R.18-07-006

Scope:

Two minor changes are made to the scope of issues as described in the third Amended Scoping Memo. First, the specific inclusion in Phase 2 of “potential consideration of other nondiscretionary expenses” is removed. Second, specific reference to coordination with Rulemaking (R.) 18-07-005 is removed.

The issues to be determined in the second phase of this proceeding are:

1. How to implement the affordability metrics and methodologies adopted by the Commission in this proceeding;
2. How to forecast variables used to calculate the affordability metrics;
3. How to set proxy values for essential utility service cost data that are unavailable;
4. Determining the appropriate procedural pathways for implementation of the affordability metrics generally (i.e., how broadly and in which proceedings to incorporate the metrics as well as the process used to publish information);
5. How to design and publish an annual Affordability Report;
6. How to refine methodologies for calculating the affordability metrics;
7. Developing and implementing a rate and bill impact tracking tool for Class A Water Utilities for ongoing support of the Commission’s work;
8. Developing and implementing an energy rate and bill impact tracking tool for ongoing support of the Commission’s work;
9. Determining interactions between the affordability metrics and the rate and bill tracker tool under development by the Commission’s Energy Division;
10. How to coordinate ongoing data requests for information related to the affordability metrics;
11. How to develop and maintain tools for calculating the affordability metrics;
12. How to make the measurements of the affordability metrics publicly available and accessible; and
13. How to incorporate any approved essential usage study from Application (A.) 19-11-019.

Schedule:

Third Phase of R. 18-07-006

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This new phase is dedicated to further consideration of strategies to mitigate future energy rate increases, including strategies first proposed by stakeholders during the En Banc and in comments on the En Banc. The Commission will examine whether changes to Commission rules and practices, the rules and practices of other entities, and/or current statutes, should be recommended to mitigate future rate increases. To begin this examination, the Commission will hold a workshop in the first quarter of 2022 in which parties will share preliminary proposals for strategies to mitigate rate increases and debate the strengths and weaknesses of these strategies.

Preliminary Scope:

1. What actions, if any, should the Commission take to mitigate future increases in energy costs, rates and bills?
2. What actions, if any, should the Commission recommend other entities take to mitigate future increases in energy costs, rates and bills?

Schedule: