What we heard
Last November we invited our customers to share their views on electricity and natural gas by completing a survey. Nearly 15,000 of you responded providing valuable insights into your perspectives on future energy choices. Below is a summary of those key insights and how they are incorporated into our Integrated Resource Planning process.
Key survey findings
- 87% of survey respondents indicated energy rates are important to consider when planning to meet electricity and natural gas needs.
- 78% indicated that reliability of energy is important to consider.
- 70% indicated environmental impacts are important factors to consider.
- 40% are considering the purchase of electric vehicles in the near future.
- The topic of time varying rates generated high interest and diverse opinions.
Cost and affordability
Customers who responded to the survey told us they are strongly motivated by cost and affordability. Our modelling and analysis for the Integrated Resource Plan will favour options that minimize cost for customers.
Reliability and the environment
Along with cost, reliability of energy service and environmental concerns are also important to survey participants. The metrics used to compare options for meeting Manitoba’s energy needs will address these key considerations.
Rate structure
Survey participants are also engaged and interested in how energy rates are structured. Energy rates will be important factors in the comparison of energy options for meeting future needs.
Electric vehicles
Electric vehicles are increasingly in the near-term plans of the survey participants. Adoption of electric vehicles will be a key input for the Integrated Resource Plan analysis. The timing and rate of adoption will be further researched.
Natural gas and self-generation
Survey participants are not actively looking to switch from using natural gas to electricity. Further, based on survey results, self-generation options are not anticipated to be adopted quickly on a large scale. The cost and the return on investment were identified as important considerations in these decisions.
The evolving role of natural gas and self-generation will be a key input in our modelling and analysis and a focus of ongoing engagement and research.
Next Steps
The initial survey provided valuable information. This spring, we are continuing the conversation, inviting individual customers to participate in focused discussions to build on what we learned and gain a broader understanding of perspectives.
Your Voice Matters
Sign up for updates on our Integrated Resource Planning process, including future opportunities to participate:
Contact us
For more information about the Integrated Resource Planning process, email us.