Nevada Takes a Positive Step Forward in Clean Energy Transition Following Final Orders from Public Utilities Commission of Nevada

The Public Utilities Commission of Nevada (PUCN) has issued a final order regarding NV Energy's 3-year resource plan that takes a positive step forward by holding NV Energy accountable and valuing distributed energy resources, such as local solar and storage, as cost-effective measures. 

In the order, the PUCN mandates more regular and substantial stakeholder interactions, aiming to ensure that resource planning is thoroughly discussed and feedback is incorporated. Additionally, NV Energy has been directed to enhance its reporting on behind-the-meter (BTM) storage in future Demand Side Management (DSM) updates and to incorporate additional benefits of local energy resources into the upcoming Distributed Resource Plan (DRP) update in September 2025. 

"The Public Utilities Commission of Nevada's recent order represents a pivotal moment for clean energy in our state, setting a standard for accountability and inclusivity in resource planning,” said Vote Solar’s Interior West Regulatory Director, Claudine Custodio. “By valuing distributed energy resources, like local solar and storage, and amplifying stakeholder voices, we are not just paving the way for a sustainable future but also ensuring that all Nevadans benefit from a cleaner and more resilient electric grid.”

The PUCN has agreed with Vote Solar’s recommendation for adjustments to NV Energy's analysis, including extending the evaluation period to 20 years and considering factors like system losses and tax implications. These directives underscore NV Energy’s need to rectify past oversights and be transparent in its planning process to better provide for ratepayers under their services. 

"While this recent order makes us hopeful about the direction the PUCN is going in, our work in Nevada is nowhere near done,” said Custodio. “The approved new gas plants and limited transportation electrification plan budgets within the order are reminders that there is still much to improve. We will continue pushing our advocacy forward and help guide Nevada towards a cleaner and fairer future.”

Vote Solar | https://votesolar.org/