Public feedback is being sought on a proposed Integrated Resource Plan for the island’s energy sector.

The Regulatory Authority of Bermuda announced two town hall meetings as it launched the first stage of public consultation on the document, drawn up by power utility Belco.

The IRP, released today, contains detailed proposals on how to achieve a reliable electricity supply for the island at a reasonable cost over the next two decades.

Aaron Smith, interim chief executive of the RA, said: “This is the initial stage of the process. Belco produced a proposal, as required under the Electricity Act, and for the next 60 days the public is encouraged to review and comment on it.

“There is also the opportunity to submit new proposals for bulk generation or demand side resources for potential inclusion in the IRP.”

Mr Smith added: “We are keen for as many stakeholders as possible to participate in this public consultation.”

“The town hall meetings will inform interested parties of the process, explaining how and why feedback can be provided for inclusion in the final IRP.”

The RA said public and stakeholder submissions and comments would feed into its overall review and analysis of the proposal.

It added: “After public consultation, the Authority will set out the strategy and will lay the foundation for the future of Bermuda’s energy sector, balancing the island’s long-term electricity demand and supply needs.”

The town hall meetings, to be held at St Paul AME Centennial Hall, will explain the importance of the plan for Bermuda’s energy sector and how the consultation process will work.

The first meeting will be held at 2pm on Tuesday and the second at 6pm on Thursday. The same presentation will be delivered at both sessions.

• The IRP proposal is available at http://www.rab.bm/index.php/ele-consultations/irp-proposal-consultation and a copies of the consultation document, plus the IRP proposal, plus appendices and an assessment of the IRP, are attached to this webpage under the heading of Related Media