Integrated Resource Planning for Hawaii Gas
In 2022, the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission initiated the Hawaii Gas Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) process to evaluate the long-term supply and demand options for meeting customers’ energy needs. The Hawaii Division of Consumer Advocacy (DCA) retained Synapse to provide technical support throughout the process.
During Phase 1, Synapse participated in stakeholder meetings and commented on Hawaii Gas’s proposed inputs and methodologies. Toward the conclusion of this phase, Synapse reviewed the draft IRP, evaluating the reasonableness of its models and the risk, affordability, and emissions reduction impacts of proposed demand- and supply-side alternatives. Synapse summarized its findings in a memorandum that the DCA attached to its Statement of Position on February 24, 2023. Hawaii Gas released its final IRP on April 6, 2023.
In Phase 2—launched in 2025—Synapse has been supporting the DCA in examining the final IRP’s consistency with state energy policies, integration of renewable gas resources, and implications for reliability of supply, system resilience, and ratepayer costs. Our review also focuses on the emissions benefits and risks associated with Hawaii Gas’s proposed scenarios. Project ongoing.