Reflecting Customer Needs in Demand Side Management Planning

Utility planners have engaged in much discussion recently on the importance of developing rates and programs that better meet customer needs. utility engineers have received little direction, however, on specific steps they should take in designing more responsive rates and programs. This paper describes changes in the utility planning process appropriate for better meeting customer needs. Steps examined include: defining program objectives, selecting programs, specifying cost/benefit methodologies, rates and incentives, and interfacing with supply planning.