OSA Inc. in Ringgold announces the beginning of a study to take place that may influence the choice of electricity generation, conservation, and grid choices for the next 30 years.

The Collaborative Integrated Resource Planning Study (CIRPS) will bring together electric utilities, equipment suppliers, environmental organizations, financial institutions, academia, regulatory agencies and interested individuals to evaluate the long-term costs and benefits of the various options.

The CIRPS project will use the PowrSym model to make 30-year comparative analyses using a fictional, but very typical regional electric utility.

OSA began development of the PowrSym computer model in 1983 and has enhanced it over the years to accurately model generating resources, renewable options, cogeneration options, conservation, and smart grid options. PowrSym takes into account the total societal cost of the various options, including the impact of emissions and waste disposal.

The CIRPS project will consider uncertainties on all forecasts, for example fuel costs, environment impacts, and costs of new resources. The CIRPS project will be conducted in an open and transparent framework with Internet-based and in-person working groups, representing diverse viewpoints.

OSA invites anyone interested in the long-term benefits and costs of electric energy use to participate in the CIRPS project. For more information, please visit the web site at www.powrsym.com.