PROJECTED ELECTRICITY DEMANDS IN NORTHWEST UNITED STATES EXCEED PRIOR PREDICTIONS

An annual report published by the Pacific Northwest Utilities Conference Committee reported electricity needs to increase over 30% within the next decade. Since last year, expected electrical needs have exceeded last year’s projections by 5%. Electrical demand continues to increase due to the rapid expansion of large data centers and the trend to utilize electrification in homes, transportation, and buildings.

The Pacific Northwest Utilities Conference Committee analyzes the annual demand projections derived from Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana utilities to develop future electrical projections for the region. Emerging energy sources weren’t considered for the forecast, and the committee did recognize that development of alternative energy sources such as offshore turbines, long term energy storage, green hydrogen power, and nuclear energy could radically change the overall energy picture. In lieu of this, the committee recommended that regional energy departments collaborate to expand existing electrical grids and transmission capabilities in preparation for the increased projected power demands.

To read the report in its entirety go here.