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constraints are found, we develop work plans to address them, whether that means new or upgraded transmission lines, substation capacity additions, distribution circuits, feeder improvements or equipment replacements. The purpose is to bring capacity online when it is needed, not too late and not unnecessarily early. The timing of that investment matters enormously, because if infrastructure is delayed, reliability and growth suffer, and if it is built too far ahead of need, members bear costs before the benefit is realized.
“ Thus, the ten-year planning process empowers us to balance those considerations. This type of forecasting is especially important in Southwest Florida, where growth patterns can vary significantly by area. Some communities are experiencing rapid development, while other areas have unique environmental, storm or access concerns, and our rolling forecast allows us to adjust as conditions change. From a CFO perspective, it is also essential because it connects engineering requirements directly with capital planning, debt strategy, rate planning, procurement and long-term financial sustainability,” Sarah concludes.
LCEC has spent 85 years making the same promise of reliable, responsibly managed power to Southwest Florida, all while always keeping the community in mind. That promise is made credible by its infrastructure, thorough ten-year forecasts and the fact that the people delivering it live in the same communities they serve. ■
www. lcec. net
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