A new report by Environmental Defense Fund and Gridworks examines how intervenor compensation programs can help state utility commissions make more informed, durable decisions as they navigate rapid changes across the energy system. The report offers practical guidance for states designing or strengthening intervenor compensation programs.
As electricity demand grows, utility commissions are making increasingly complex decisions about affordability, reliability, transmission planning and grid modernization. The report finds that well-designed intervenor compensation programs – which help public interest organizations, consumer advocates, Tribes and community-based organizations participate in utility commission proceedings by generally covering the costs of their time as well as legal, technical and expert support – can strengthen the evidentiary record by ensuring commissioners hear from a broader range of expertise, independent analysis and stakeholder perspectives. The report identifies practical recommendations to help states establish or strengthen these programs.
Find the report here: Powering Participation: How Intervenor Compensation Can Strengthen Utility Commission Decision-Making
