This guide provides an overview of strategic electricity planning for communities, using a step-by-step approach to develop the plan. This method has a high chance of success, because it is based on stakeholder buy-in and political commitment. Not all communities will need to follow all steps, but the process is designed to incorporate all parties, maximize solution-based
thinking, and develop a plan that can be carried out by community leaders. The guide is provided by the US Department of Energy.

There are many specific programs and consultancies available to assist in various parts of the planning process. While many are mentioned here, this is neither a comprehensive list nor a specific endorsement of any of the programs. Communities should review their resources and interests when considering the costs and benefits of partnerships with other cities and organizations.

A strategic energy plan is a roadmap to achieving community energy goals in both the near and long term. The goals are determined by stakeholder input, so the plans are inherently local and have stakeholder buy-in, leading to a greater likelihood of success of the plan over time. A strategic energy plan can be part of a greenhouse gas emission plan, a greening plan, or a community master plan.

View the guide here: How to develop a strategic energy plan.