THAI ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION
ORGANIZED BY: A W.I.S.H. - PALANG THAI - WORLD RESOURCES INSTITUTE – CMU-USER
WITH SUPPORT BY: BLUE MOON FUND
EXCHANGE TRIP OF THAI ENERGY DELEGATES
ON ENERGY REGULATORY AND PLANNING PRACTICES
TO WASHINGTON AND OREGON, U.S.A.
Palang Thai
Oregon and Washington State
September 27 – October 5, 2008
Log# 1
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Program Description
You will travel to the Washington and Oregon states from September 27 – October 5, 2008, for an
exchange tour on regulatory and planning practices.
Objectives: To promote exchanges and discussion on energy regulatory and planning practices through
site visits and meetings with professional peers and stakeholder groups in the states of Washington and
Oregon. (1) Develop contacts between Thai and US regulatory authorities and planners regarding tariff
setting, public participation, project siting, and long-term planning (2) Develop contacts between Thai
and US utilities that can serve as basis for sharing effective technical and administrative practices
regarding planning and implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. (3) Visit
examples of grid-connected renewable energy systems. We will visit solar, wind power, hydropower,
nuclear, and cogeneration projects – some utility-owned, some private-sector -- and learn about utilities
experience with these energy sources over extended time periods.
Background: With a growing demand for electricity, high reliance on natural gas for electricity (some
of which much be imported), strong community opposition to power plant development, calls for
changes to planning practices, and emerging concerns with climate change –Thai planners, regulators
and utilities face a variety of challenges. This trip is designed to expose Thai decision-makers to US
counterparts to discuss ways in which both sides have addressed these issues on both sides of the
Pacific.
Organization and logistics: The Blue Moon Foundation provided funding support to A World Institute
for Sustainable Humanity (A W.I.S.H: www.awish.net) with collaboration from World Resources
Institute (WRI: www.wri.org), Palang Thai (www.palangthai.org) and Chiang Mai University’s Unit for
Social and Environmental Research (USER) to organize and lead the study tour. The expenses
associated with domestic travel, logistics, meals during meetings, and admission fees are provided for all
the study tour participants. Contact persons for the trip organization are Chuenchom S. Greacen
(chom@palangthai.org) and Chris Greacen (chris@palangthai.org). WRI and A W.I.S.H will issue
invitation letters with documentation to help with visa requirement. The meetings are being lined up
currently.
Topics to be covered during meetings and site visits:
• Regulation of the power and gas sector (decision-making process, pricing of electricity, pricing
of bulk and retail gas, licensing, supply procurement, competition, technical and environmental
performance, consumer protection, consideration of low-income users)
• Energy planning (energy mix, policies, targets, practices, supply options, costing, siting,
environmental aspects )
• Energy efficiency and renewable energy (policies and incentives, regulation, targets, plans, cost
effectiveness, industry trends)
• Nuclear power (development, public consultation process, costing, performance,
decommissioning process)
• Public consultation and acceptance of power plant siting, information management, sharing of
benefits
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• Roles of civil society and advocacy groups (public/consumer interest advocacy, evolution,
strategies)
Participant list
Dr. Direk Lavansiri Chairman Energy Regulatory Commission
Dr. Pallapa Ruangrong Commissioner Energy Regulatory Commission
Dr. Supichai Tungjaitrong Commissioner Energy Regulatory Commission
Mr. Chalit Ruengvisesh Commissioner Energy Regulatory Commission
Ms. Nadhaporn Channoi Legal officer Office of Energy Regulatory Commission
Ms. Narumon Intharak Policy and plan analyst Energy Policy and Planning Office
Mr. Alongkorn Ponlaboot Member of Parliament House of Representatives
Dr. Toemchai Bunnag Executive Vice President, strategic PTT Plc.
planning, gas unit
Mr. Wirush Kanchanapibul Assistant Governor, Transmission System Electricity Generating Authority of
Operation Thailand (EGAT)
Mr. Kaew Kamolvutana Director, Power Purchase Agreement Electricity Generating Authority of
Division Thailand (EGAT)
Mr. Pornthape Thunyapongchai Governor Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA)
Mr. Pongsakorn Tontivanichanon Deputy Governor, Corporate Development Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA)
Mr. Passorn Wiengket Assistant Governor Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA)
Ms. Puree Sirasoontorn ERC consultant Thammasat University
Ms. Sarinee Achavanantakul Business/Finance Lecturer Thammasat University
Dr. Saranarat Kanjanavanit Secretary General Green World Foundation
Mr. Witoon Permpongsachareon Secretary General Foundation for Ecological Recovery
Ms. Sairung Thongplon Manager Confederation of Consumer
Organizations, Thailand
Mr. Anubut Sangarasri RE project finance officer E + Co Thailand
Ms. Thananuch Sanguansak Reporter, Editor The Nation Channel
Mr. Kullapat Chankrailas Producer The Nation Channel
Ms. Orapin Lilitwisitwong Anchor, Editor Thai PBS
Mr. Satean Sangkum Camera man Thai PBS
Mr. Michael Karp Chief Executive Officer and President A World Institute for Sustainable
Humanity (AWISH)
Dr. Chris Greacen Director Palang Thai
Ms. Chuenchom S. Greacen Vice-director Palang Thai
Dr. Tira Foran Researcher Unit for Social and Environmental
Research (USER)
Mr. Davida Wood Senior Associate World Resource Institute
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PROGRAM CONTACT INFORMATION
PROGRAM CONTENT
Dr. Christopher Edmund Greacen
Michael Karp, President and Chief Executive Palang Thai
Officer 58 Wild Rose Lane
A World Institute for a Sustainable Humanity Lopez Island, WA
(A W.I.S.H) Tel: 360-468-2812
P.O. Box 812 E-mail: chris@palangthai.org
Lopez Island, Washington 98261 U.S.A.
Phone: (360) 468-3231 ACCOMMODATIONS AND LOGISTICS
Cell : (360) 961-1161
E-mail: michael@awish.net Linda Sahlin
Sahlin Productions
Chuenchom Sangarasri Greacen 325 2nd Ave West
Palang Thai Seattle, WA 98119
58 Wild Rose Lane Phone: 206-283-0717
Lopez Island, WA Fax: 206-283-2613
Phone : 360-468-2812 Cell: 206-714-9077
Cell: 831-818-7003 (for week of trip only) E-mail: LSahlin@cablespeed.com
E-mail: chomsgreacen@gmail.com
Tentative itinerary:
Saturday 27 September 2008
AM Delegates arrive at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and are picked up by Ace
Transportation – contact is Omar 206-730-4000. Look for driver at Baggage Claim with
sign that reads “A W.I.S.H. Thailand Energy Exchange”
PM Check-in to hotel (If room is available. Otherwise, check in time is 3:00pm)
Guests to provide credit card for incidentals upon check in at all hotels. Room costs will
not be billed to individual rooms – just incidentals.
Shopping at Pike Place (optional)
Sight-seeing in Seattle
6-7 PM Cocktail reception by A W.I.S.H
At Warwick Seattle Hotel
Cambridge Room - 2nd floor
7:00 PM Dinner on own
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Reservations for 13 people (group led by ERC)
at 7pm at Assagio Ristorante
2010 4th Ave (4th & Virginia)
Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 441-1399 Matthew
http://www.assaggioseattle.com
OTHER SUGGESTED RESTAURANTS:
Dahlia Lounge
201 4th Avenue (corner of 4th & Virginia)
(206)682-4142
http://www.tomdouglas.com/dahlia/index.html
Palace Kitchen
2030 5th Avenue (corner of 5th & Lenora)
(206) 448-2001
http://www.tomdouglas.com/palace/index.html
Wild Ginger
1401 3rd Avenue (corner of 3rd & Union)
(206) 623-4450
http://www.wildginger.net/
Etta’s Seafood
2020 Western Ave (half block north of the Pike Place Market)
(206) 443-6000
http://www.tomdouglas.com/ettas/index.html
Top Destinations
Pike Place Market - 4 blocks www.pikeplacemarket.com
Space Needle - 90 seconds by monorail www.spaceneedle.com Monorail - 2 blocks
www.seattlemonorail.com
Experience Music Project - 90 seconds by monorail www.emplive.com
Science Center - 90 seconds by monorail www.pacsci.org
Safeco Field / Seahawk Stadium - 1.5 miles www.safeco.com/safeco/safecofield/
Waterfront - 5 blocks
International District ( Chinatown ) - 1.5 miles
Pioneer Square - 1 mile
Seattle Center - 7 blocks www.seattlecenter.com
Other Destinations
Seattle Art Museum - 0.5 miles - www.seattleartmuseum.org
Seattle Convention and Visitors Bureau - 0.5 miles - www.seeseattle.org
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Clipper Vacations/Victoria Clipper - 0.5 miles - www.clippervacations.com
University of Washington - 7 miles - www.washington.edu
Bell Street Pier - 0.5 miles - www.portseattle.org/seaport/bellstreetpier.shtml
Seattle Symphony at Benaroya Hall - 0.5 miles - www.seattlesymphony.org Pacific Northwest Ballet at
Marion Oliver McCaw Hall - 0.5 miles - www.pnb.org
Paramount Theater - 6 blocks - www.theparamount.com
5th Avenue Theater - 7 blocks
Jazz Alley - 2 blocks - www.jazzalley.com
Cinerama - across from hotel - www.cinerama.com
World Class Shopping
Barney's of New York - 6 blocks
BCBG – 5 blocks
Butch Blum – 6 blocks
Coach – 5 blocks
Jeri Rice – 6 blocks
Louis Vuitton – 6 blocks
Macy's – 2 blocks
Nordstrom – 4 blocks
St. Johns – 7 blocks
Accommodation: Warwick Seattle Hotel
(www.warwickhotels.com)
401 Lenora St
Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 443-4300
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Sunday 28 September 2008
6:30-9:30 AM Breakfast in Brasserie Margaux (vouchers provided)
Can also be used for room service but will incur a 20% gratuity and a delivery fee
9:45 AM Please meet in hotel lobby for bus departure
10:00 AM Leave Seattle
Travel to Eastern Washington (~ 2 hrs.)
12:00 PM Lunch at Bar-14 Ranch House Restaurant 34
1800 Canyon Rd, Elensburg
(509)962-6222 Becky
(Exit 109 - go right)
1:30 PM Tour of Wild Horse Wind Farm and centralized solar station
25901 Vantage Highway
Ellensburg, WA 98926
(509) 964-7810
David Bowen will lead tour. Cell: 509 899 3444
Driving from Ellensburg, it will be at milepost 16.5 on Vantage Hwy. Once you enter
into wind facility, pass a gate with signs that say ‘proceed 3.1 miles to visitor center’. Park at
visitor’s center (bus parking confirmed).
The Wild Horse Wind Farm provides approximately 230 megawatts (MW) using 127 wind
turbines over 8,600 acres of open range. The turbines, underground power lines, roads, and
substation blend well with other land uses, and the wind farm itself takes up only about 165 acres.
Wild Horse Wind Farm was built by Horizon Wind Energy and sold to Puget Sound Energy. It
started producing power in late 2006.
The Wild Horse Solar Array uses a 500 kW photovoltaic (PV) panels to convert sunlight directly
to electricity. The array, which entered service in October 2007, currently comprises 2,400 solar
panels, and will gain an additional 300 panels later in 2008.
3:30 PM Drive to Yakima (~40 mins)
4:10 PM Winery Tour
Sageland Vineyard
71 Gangl Road, Wapato, WA 98951
(800) 967-8115
$3/per person. Closes at 5pm
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5:10 PM Check-in to hotel
6:00 PM Dinner on own
Reservations for 13 people (group led by ERC) at 6pm
Greystone Restaurant
5 N Front Yakima, WA 98901
(509) 248-9801 Mark
www.greystonedining.com
OTHER SUGGESTED RESTAURANTS:
Depot Restaurant & Lounge
32 N Front Street, Suite 103, Yakima
(509)949-4233
Great American Grill (located in hotel)
The Golden Wheel (Chinese)
9 South 1st Street, Yakima
(509)457-8400
Tequila’s (Mexican)
1 West Yakima Ave, Yakima
(509)457-3296
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn, Yakima
www.Hiltongardeninn.com
401 E. Yakima Avenue
Yakima, WA 98901
Sylvia Aguirre: (509) 494 5003
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Monday 29 September 2008
6:00-7:00 AM Breakfast at Great American Grill (Hilton Garden Inn)
7:15 AM Please meet in the hotel lobby for departure by bus.
7:30 AM Leave Yakima for Energy Northwest Headquarters in Richland.
(~ 1 hr 25 min.)
9:00 AM Energy Northwest Headquarters
3000 George Washington Way, Richland WA
(bus parking confirmed)
Parking lot at corner of George Washington Way
and Hills St. Bus parking at the far (north) end
of the parking lot.
Presentation by Jack Baker, Sr. Management
10:30 AM Depart for Columbia Generating Station guided by Energy Northwest communications
director Carole Bergara (509-377-8305). 76 North Powerplant Loop, Richland
10:45 AM Park at parking lot (bus parking space confirmed). Bus will be searched. Everyone will
have to present photo ID (passports OK). Please make sure not to bring any of the
following restricted items: (Carol to supply list)
11:00 AM Initiate guided bus tour of Columbia Generating Station – with Guide on-board bus. Tour
should take about 25 minutes depending on questions.
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The Columbia Generating Station is a uranium-fueled General Electric boiling water reactor. The
plant generates 1250 MW of electricity, providing Washington with 9% of the state's electrical
generation capacity. This plant is owned and operated by Energy Northwest, a consortium of Pacific
Northwest public utilities. Energy Northwest's original name was the Washington Public Power Supply
System (WPPSS). Of the five commercial reactors originally planned by WPPSS for the State of
Washington, this reactor was the only one completed.
With the 1992 retirement of Oregon's Trojan Nuclear Power Plant, it is the only commercial nuclear
power reactor remaining in the Pacific Northwest.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Columbia_Generating_Station
http://www.energy-northwest.com/generation/cgs/index.php (includes links to video tour of plant)
Note – due to post-9-11 security concerns,the nuclear plant site is now off-limits to visitors. We were however
able to get clearances for participants to have a bus tour of the plant compound and have a meeting with slide
presentation from the plant management.
11:30 AM Depart Columbia Generating Station and
drive along Columbia River
which borders WA/OR (~3:20 hrs.)
(Boxed lunch on bus)
4:00 PM Tour of Bonneville Hydropower
dam operated by Army Corps of
Engineers. Patrick Barry
(Patrick.barry@usace.army.mil) Tel.
501-374-4582. Meet on the Washington
side for the hydroelectric tour. Bus parking confirmed.
Directions from Columbia Generating Station: Follow I-84 west and cross river at
Cascade Locks (exit 44). Pass through town of Cascade Locks and at west side of town is
the entrance to the bridge. Once across the bridge, turn west (left) on Hwy 14. Then drive
3 miles to entrance (approximately mile 39 on State Route 14). Entrance is 1 mile west of
dam. Follow service road to the dam. Bus will pass through security checkpoint.
Passengers disembark and enter glass wall building (no physical address). Bus to park in
nearby parking lot.
The Bonneville Dam is a hydroelectric dam spanning the Columbia River. Construction of first power
house of the dam (526 MW) began in 1933 and was completed in 1937. A second power house (558
MW) was started in 1974, finishing in 1981. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bonneville_Dam
5:00 PM Drive to Skamania Lodge and check-in
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7:00 PM Seafood Buffet Dinner at Skamania Lodge
(Stevenson Ballroom A)
*** Hosted by CMU-USER ***
Accommodation: Skamania Lodge
www.skamania.com
1131 SW Skamania Lodge Way
Stevenson, WA 98648
(800) 376-9116
Tuesday 30 September 2008
7:30 AM Breakfast in Dining Room (vouchers provided)
Can also be used for room service but will incur a 20% gratuity and a delivery fee
8:30 AM Multnomah Falls Hike (0.5 mile hike optional). Those who wish to hike, please meet in
lobby for departure by van/car. http://trips.stateoforegon.com/multnomah_falls/ . After
hike van/car will drive directly to meetings.
10:00 AM All participants who did not go to Multnomah Falls hike, please meet in the lobby for a
bus departure.
10:15 AM Drive to Portland, Oregon (~40 mins)
11:30 AM Hosted lunch at Heathman Hotel – Tea Court
1:00-5:00 PM Peer exchange: Session 1 - Heathman Hotel
Broadway Room
Peer Exchange: Session 1
Heathman Hotel, Oregon, Portland
1-5 PM, 30 September 2008
HOST: RENEWABLE NORTHWEST PROJECT (RNP)
1:00 WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS (Michael Karp, President/CEO of A W.I.S.H; Anne
Gravatt, RNP)
1:15 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE SESSION (Chris and Chom Greacen, Palang Thai
Project)
1:20 FIRST PANEL DISCUSSION
Introductions of speakers, facilitator: Anne Gravatt, RNP
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Energy planning and regulation. How to achieve energy security while meeting economic,
environmental and social goals? What supply options are considered and on what basis are they
compared and selected to minimize risks to security and price as well as costs and impacts to
consumers? What are the mechanisms to incorporate consideration of low-income users, economic and
environmental impacts in energy planning and regulatory decision-making processes?
Ken Niles, Assistant Director of Oregon Department of Energy
John Savage, Oregon Public Utility Commissioner
Bob Jenks, Executive Director, Citizens Utility Board of Oregon
Commentary / presentation by Thai participants
2:15 BREAK
2:30 SECOND PANEL DISCUSSION
Introductions of speakers, facilitator: Michael Karp, A W.I.S.H
Renewable energy and conservation. What are policies, incentives, regulations employed to promote
energy conservation and renewable energy? What are the current and target supply mixes? How cost
effective are energy efficiency/conservation measures and renewable energy sources compared to other
conventional options such as nuclear, fossil fuels and large hydropower? Are there any planning/
regulatory/technical complications or system security concerns as result of growing grid-connected
renewable energy? What are the impacts on carbon emissions? What roles do energy conservation and
renewable energy play in helping to meet climate change mitigation goals?
Margie Harris, Executive Director, Energy Trust of Oregon
Anne Gravatt, Policy Director, Renewable Northwest Project
Jim Abrahamson, Energy Policy Director, Community Action Directors Association of Oregon
Commentary / presentation by Thai participants
3:30 SMALL GROUP BREAKOUT SESSIONS
(Assignments and logistics: Chris Greacen, Palang Thai Project)
Group 1: Energy Regulation (Dialogue on future cooperation as well as discussions on
regulatory issues including organizational designs, regulatory regime/philosophy for effective
regulation, licensing, etc.) led by
Mr. John Savage, Oregon Public Utility Commissioner
Dr. Direk Lawansiri, Chair of Thailand Energy Regulatory Commission
Group 2: Industry and trends (peer exchanges on industry practices and trends) led by
Oregon and Thai utilities, Renewable Energy Northwest Project
Group 3: Civil society: roles, strategies and challenges led by
Jim Abrahamson, Community Action Directors Association of Oregon
Citizens Utility Board of Oregon
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Thai civil society groups
4:45 REPORT BACK
5:00 ADJOURN SESSION
The Public Utility Commission of Oregon (PUC) regulates customer rates and services of the state's
investor-owned electric, natural gas and telephone utilities. The PUC ensures consumers receive utility
service at fair and reasonable rates, while allowing regulated companies the opportunity to earn an
adequate return on their investment. The Commission's responsibilities are carried out by a staff of 124
employees. http://www.puc.state.or.us/PUC/about_us.shtml
The mission of the Oregon Department of Energy is to ensure Oregon has an adequate supply of
reliable and affordable energy and is safe from nuclear contamination, by helping Oregonians save
energy, develop clean energy resources, promote renewable energy, and clean up nuclear waste. The
department was created in 1975. http://www.oregon.gov/ENERGY/about_us.shtml
In 1994, a broad coalition of public-interest organizations and energy companies created the Renewable
Northwest Project (RNP) to promote development of the region's renewable resources. RNP works for
a clean energy future by: working with local organizations and energy companies to get renewable
projects in the ground; promoting policies; encouraging utilities and customer groups to invest in new
renewables; and nurturing a market for renewables. http://www.rnp.org/About/default.html
The Citizen’s Utility Board of Oregon (Oregon CUB) represents small residential customers in rate
cases and advocates for clean and efficient energy alternatives in cases brought before the Public Utility
Commission and State Legislature. It is funded by Oregon rate payers. www.oregoncub.org/about.htm
The Community Action Directors Association of Oregon (CADO) is a private, non-profit association
comprised of the Executive Directors of Oregon's Community Action Agencies, the Oregon Human
Development Corporation and associate member agencies. The mission of CADO and member
Community Action Agencies is to eradicate the causes and conditions of poverty that exist in Oregon.
CAPO's work includes formulating policy and implementation of programs that affect the poor and
raising public awareness of the problems of the poor. http://www.caporegon.org/
5:00 PM Check-in to hotel
6:00 PM Dinner on own
Reservations for 13 people (group led by ERC) at 6pm
Dragon Fish Café
909 SW Park Ave (in the Paramount Hotel)
Portland, OR 97205
(503) 243-5991 - Corey
http://dragonfishcafe.com/pdx/default.html
OTHER SUGGESTED RESTAURANTS NEAR HOTEL:
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Porto Terra Tuscan Grill
830 SW 6th Ave
Portland, OR 97204
(503) 944-1090
www.portoterra.com
The Melting Pot
Southwest 6th Avenue
Portland, OR 97204
(503) 517-8960
www.meltingpot.com
The Heathman Restaurant & Bar
Heathman Hotel
(503)790-7752
http://heathmanrestaurantandbar.com/
Top Destinations
Shopping
Powells Books. One of the world's great bookstores, with a huge selection of new and used books.
http://www.powells.com . 1005 W Burnside. Open 9am to 11pm.
Pioneer Place Shopping. Located in the heart of downtown Portland, Pioneer Place is four city blocks
filled with world-class shopping, dining and entertainment in Portland's retail core. Visit
www.pioneerplace.com. Open until 9pm
Clackamas Town Center. Clackamas Town Center offers the best shopping, entertainment and dining
in Portland. Visit www.clackamastowncenter.com. Open until 9:00pm
Washington Square. Washington Square is considered one of the finest shopping environments in
Portland with its upscale store selection and contemporary architecture and design. Visit
www.shopwashingtonsquare.com. Open until 9:00pm
The Pearl District. Sample haute couture and hot cuisine in Portland’s Pearl District, Portland’s best
place to shop and be seen. The Pearl is composed of 50 city blocks of industrial warehouses turned sleek
lofts, cutting-edge art galleries and vibrant international restaurants. Visit www.shopthepearl.com
Downtown Portland. A vibrant shopping experience, Downtown Portland is brimming with 628
delightful shops, hundreds of restaurants and bars, entertainment around every corner, and three major
department stores - Nordstrom, Meier & Frank and Saks Fifth Avenue.
Multnomah Village. A short drive south of downtown leads into Multnomah's winding streets with a
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refreshing mix of art galleries, specialty, antique shops, bookstores and cafés that lend a relaxing vibe.
Visit: www.multnomahvillage.org.
Outings
Japanese Gardens – last admission at 6:30pm $8/pp. www.japanesegarden.com
611 SW Kingston Ave, Portland, Oregon 97201
Classical Chinese Gardens – open until 6:00pm $8.50/pp. www.portlandchinesegarden.com
239 NW Everett St, Portland, Oregon 97209
Portland State University - www.pdx.edu
1825 SW Broadway, Portland Oregon 97207
Theatre And Music
Oregon Symphony - www.orsymphony.org
923 SW Washington St, Portland, Oregon 97205
Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall - www.pcpa.com/events/asch.php
1037 SW Broadway, Portland, Oregon 97205
Rose Quarter - www.rosequarter.com
1 N Center Ct, Portland, Oregon 97227
Artist Repertory Theatre - www.artistsrep.org
1516 SW Alder St, Portland, Oregon 97205
Accommodation: The Heathman Hotel, Portland
1001 SW Broadway at Salmon
Portland, OR 97205
(800) 551-0011
Wednesday 1 October 2008
7:30-9:00AM Breakfast in Heathman Restaurant & Bar (voucher provided)
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9:15 AM Please meet in the hotel lobby for departure by bus.
9:30 AM Travel to Olympia (capitol of Washington State) (~2 hrs.)
11:30 AM Lunch at Lemon Grass Restaurant, 212 4th Ave W,
Olympia, WA 98501,
(360)705-1832 contact Dao if you are running late
12:45 PM Depart for Grand Holiday Ballroom
1522 4th Ave E
Olympia, WA 98506
(360)570-1220 Brittany
1:00-5:00PM Hosted plenary session/small group discussions at
Grand Holiday Ballroom
Peer Exchange: Session 2
Grand Holiday Ballroom, Olympia, Washington
1-5 PM, 1 October 2008
HOST: WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY, TRADE AND ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT (CTED)
1:00 WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS (Michael Karp, President/CEO of A W.I.S.H)
1:15 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE SESSION (Chris and Chom Greacen, Palang Thai
Project)
1:20 FIRST PANEL DISCUSSION
Introductions of speakers, facilitator: Michael Karp, A W.I.S.H
Supply procurement and plant siting. What is the process in procuring energy supplies? What is the
process in power plant siting? How is the public consultation process carried out? With the challenges
of growing demand, how can load growth be served in ways that share the benefits with -- and earns
acceptance by -- local communities and public? What are some new technologies and trends that enable
utilities, regulators and government to meet energy demand cost-effectively while addressing social and
environmental concerns.
Pat Oshie, Commissioner, Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC)
Allen Fiksdal, Manager, Washington Energy Facilities Siting Commission
Steve Johnson, Executive Director, Washington Public Utilities District Association
Commentary / presentation by Thai participants
2:15 BREAK
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2:30 SECOND PANEL DISCUSSION
Welcome by Juli Wilkerson, CTED. Introductions of speakers, facilitator: Juliette Kelly, Chief
of Staff, Washington Lieutenant Governor.
Fair pricing and performance regulation: What is the philosophy behind price setting of electricity and
gas services? What costs and risks are managed and/or passed through to consumers? How are utilities
incentivised to invest and operate efficiently? How to ensure fair treatment to both regulated utilities
and consumers?
Howard Schwartz, Senior Policy Advisor, Washington Office of the Northwest Power Planning
Council/CTED
Dick Byers, Senior Policy Director, Washington Utilities Transportation Commission
Commentary / presentation by Thai participants
3:30 SMALL GROUP BREAKOUT SESSIONS
(Assignments and logistics: Chris Greacen, Palang Thai Project)
Group 1: Energy Regulation (Dialogue on future cooperation as well as discussions on
regulatory issues including organizational designs, regulatory regime/philosophy for effective
regulation, licensing, etc.) led by
Pat Oshie, Commissioner, Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC)
Mr. Chalit Ruangvisesh, Thai Energy Regulatory Commissioner
Group 2, 3, …: to be decided by participants
4:45 REPORT BACK
5:00 ADJOURN SESSION
Washington Utility and Transportation Commission (UTC) protects consumers by ensuring that
utility and transportation services are fairly priced, available, reliable and safe.
The Department of Community Trade and Economic Development (CTED) - Energy Policy
Section provides leadership, information, analysis and support for good energy decisions, assists in
developing energy policies and programs, ensure effective responses to energy emergencies and
disruptions, and provide long-term planning to minimize the total cost of energy service
The mission of the Washington Public Utilities District Association is to support, protect and enhance
its members’ ability to provide not-for-profit, locally controlled utility services for the people of
Washington. It represents 27 not-for-profit, community-owned and operated utilities that bring
electricity, water, wastewater service and wholesale telecommunications to more than 1.6 million people
in Washington http://www.wpuda.org/aboutus.htm
The State of Washington Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) provides a "one-stop"
siting process for major energy facilities in the State of Washington. The Council coordinates all of the
evaluation and licensing steps for siting major energy facilities in Washington. If a project is approved,
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EFSEC specifies the conditions of construction and operation; issues permits in lieu of any other
individual state or local agency authority; and manages an environmental and safety oversight program
of facility and site operations. http://www.efsec.wa.gov/
Washington State Office of the Lieutenant Governor. The Lieutenant Governor of Washington is the
President of the Washington State Senate, and serves the state as acting governor in the absence of the
Governor. Duties include assisting the legislature in developing a comprehensive and consistent
economic development policy. http://ltgov.wa.gov/Default.htm
Washington State Office of the Northwest Power Planning Council (NPPC) develops and maintains
a regional power plan and a fish and wildlife program to balance the Northwest's environment and
energy needs. Their work includes developing a 20-year electric power plan that will guarantee adequate
and reliable energy at the lowest economic and environmental cost to the Northwest. The plan
emphasizes energy conservation as a key resource. http://www.nwcouncil.org/about/Default.htm
5:00 PM Check-in to hotel
6:00 PM Dinner on own
Reservations for 13 people (group led by ERC) at 6pm
Anthony’s Homeport (Governor’s Room)
704 Columbia St NW
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 357-9700 – Contact Kat Hughes
http://www.anthonys.com/restaurants/info/olympia.html
$350 minimum guarantee can seat a max 15. Secured w/ Michaels cc.
OTHER SUGGESTED RESTAURANTS:
Budd Bay Café
525 Columbia St. NW
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 357-6963
http://www.buddbaycafe.com/
Olympia Oyster House
320 4th Ave W
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 753-7000
http://news.theolympian.com/mxpress/pdf/VR0108.pdf
Accommodation: Phoenix Inn Suites -Olympia
415 Capitol Way N
Olympia WA 98501
Phone: 360-570-0555
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Thursday 2 October 2008
7:00-8:15AM Breakfast in Hospitality Room
8:15 AM Please meet in hotel lobby for bus departure
8:30 AM Drive to Elma/Satsop (~0.5 hr.)
9:30 AM Visit to Satsop Development Park
(decommissioned nuclear reactor)
www.satsop.com/
meeting place (bus turn-around confirmed):
100 Technology Way
Flex Tech Building, Elma, WA
(866) 572-8767
Local orientation by: Stan Ratcliff. Director of Services for Grays Harbor Public
Development Authority 360 482-1587. Internal discussion facilitated by Jim Lazar.
The unfinished Satsop Nuclear Power Plant was designed to house two 1250 MW pressurized water
reactors. Construction of the Satsop Nuclear Power Plant began in 1977 and was halted in 1983 after a
$961 million budget shortfall, leaving the plant 76% complete. The plant was maintained, ready for
construction to be resumed, until 1994, when it was finally canceled. In 1995, a demolition plan was
finalized that eventually turned the site into the Satsop Development Park.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satsop,_Washington
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/living/2002177879_satsop13.html
Jim Lazar is a consulting economist from Olympia Washington.
11:30 AM Return to Olympia for Lunch (half hour drive)
12:00 PM Lunch at Anthony’s Hearthfire (35)
1675 Marine Drive
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 705-3473 Jennifer
1:30 PM Tour of State Capitol (hosted by Governor’s Office). Tour escort: Tony Aiken
Please wear "Comfortable walking shoes" with soft soles. Please do not wear shoes with
points (like high heels) as these can damage the roof.
Bus parking confirmed. Park bus at yellow bus zone area located on the South Diagonal.
(Also known as: SE Angle Drive) SW Olympia, WA 98504.
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(See map: http://www.ga.wa.gov/images/campus-map.pdf)
Contact: Michelle Daniel
Tour Scheduling Coordinator
State Capitol Visitor Services
360-902-8880
Tours@ga.wa.gov
3:00 PM Drive to Seattle (~2 hours)
5:00 PM Check-in to hotel
6:00 PM Dinner on own. See Suggested Restaurants from Day 1 of trip
Reservations for 13 people (group led by ERC) at 6pm
Palomino Restaurant (corner of 5th & Pike or Union – escalators to 3rd floor)
1420 5th Ave # 350
Seattle, WA 98101
(206) 623-1300 Bob Miller
One check plus 18% gratuity added
www.palomino.com
Accommodation: Warwick Hotel in Seattle
(www.warwickhotels.com)
401 Lenora St, Seattle, WA 98121
(206) 443-4300
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Friday 3 October 2008
6:30-8:30AM Breakfast in Brasserie Margaux (vouchers provided)
Can also be used for room service but will incur a 20% gratuity
8:40 AM Please meet in lobby for bus transport to World Trade Center
2200 Alaskan Way, 4th Floor
Seattle, WA 98121
(206)441-5144 Jason Day
Map of World Trade Center
9:00-1:00PM Hosted panel discussion or individual meetings at
World Trade Center:
Peer exchange: Session 3
World Trade Center, Seattle, Washington
HOST: K&L GATES LAW FIRM
9:00 WELCOME AND INTRODUCTIONS (Michael Karp, President/CEO of A W.I.S.H; Liz
Thomas, K&L Gates)
9:15 GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE SESSION (Chris and Chom Greacen, Palang Thai
Project)
9:20 FIRST PANEL DISCUSSION
Introductions of speakers, facilitator: Nancy Hirsh, Northwest Energy Coalition
Utility practices in supply procurement. Can load growth be met with renewables and conservation?
Energy efficiency and conservation: what has been tried, what has worked and what more can be done?
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Distributed vs. centralized generation: where does the future lie? What are the utility practices in
interfacing with renewables and co-generation?
Steve Reynolds, President, Puget Sound Energy
Jorge Carrasco, Superintendent, Seattle City Light
Tom Eckman, Manager, Conservation Resources, Northwest Power Planning Council
Commentary / presentation by Thai participants
10:15 BREAK (add a snack)
10:30 SECOND PANEL DISCUSSION
Introductions of speakers, facilitator: Liz Thomas, K&L Gates
Towards sustainable, accessible and equitable energy future. What visions do we hold for a desired
energy future? How does climate change factor into this picture? To what extent each energy source
(e.g. fossil fuels, nuclear, renewables and conservation) contribute to the desired future? What policies,
regulations and reforms are needed to be in place move us towards the goal? How can public interest,
environmental and consumer protection agenda be advocated in policy and decision making processes?
Nancy Hirsh, Policy Director, Northwest Energy Coalition
Simon Fitch, Chief, Office of Public Counsel, Attorney General’s Office of Washington
Phil Rockefeller, Chair, Washington Senate Energy Committee
Chuck Eberdt, Manager, the Energy Project
Commentary / presentation by Thai participants
11:30 SMALL GROUP BREAKOUT SESSIONS (Boxed Lunches)
(Assignments and logistics: Chris Greacen, Palang Thai Project)
Group 1: Nuclear energy and climate change (revival of nuclear energy as a result of climate
change, prospects, costs, challenges and alternatives) led by …
Group 2: Public interest advocacy: lessons and strategies led by
Nancy Hirsh, Policy Director, Northwest Energy Coalition
Chuck Eberdt, Manager, the Energy Project
Group 3, …: To be decided by participants
12:45 REPORT BACK
1:00 ADJOURN SESSION
Puget Sound Energy is Washington State’s largest and oldest energy utility, serving more than 1
million electric customers and approximately 725,000 natural gas customers. PSE is an investor-owned
utility. Approximately one-third of the electricity PSE customers use comes from the utility's own power
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plants. Together, these plants have more than 2,400 megawatts of power-generating capacity. PSE
purchases the rest of its power supply, mostly under long-term contracts, from other utilities,
independent power producers, and energy marketers across the western United States and Canada. The
utility owns and operates two large wind farms in Eastern Washington. These facilities make PSE the
largest producer of renewable energy in the Pacific Northwest. http://www.pse.com
Seattle City Light is a municipal utility that provides electricity to the City of Seattle. It is governed by
the City Council. Seattle City Light has met 100% of load growth through a combination of energy
efficiency and renewables.
Climate Solutions is an Olympia-based non-profit organization with a mission to accelerate practical
and profitable solutions to global warming by galvanizing leadership, growing investment and bridging
divides. http://www.climatesolutions.org/?s=about
The Public Counsel Unit of the Washington State Attorney General’s Office represents the
customers residential and small business customers of state-regulated investor-owned utility companies.
This includes electric and gas companies such as Puget Sound Energy, Avista, and PacifiCorp. The
government office advocates for Washington utility consumers on issues such as rates, service quality,
company business practices, mergers, and competition, primarily in cases before the Washington
Utilities and Transportation Commission (WUTC) and in state court.
http://ago.bisc.com/page.aspx?id=2308
Northwest Energy Coalition is an alliance of more than 100 environmental, civic, and human service
organizations, progressive utilities, and businesses in Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Montana, Alaska and
British Columbia. The group promotes development of renewable energy and energy conservation,
consumer protection, low-income energy assistance, and fish and wildlife restoration on the Columbia
and Snake rivers. http://www.nwenergy.org/
Northwest Power Planning Council (NPPC) develops and maintains a regional power plan and a fish
and wildlife program to balance the Northwest's environment and energy needs. Their work includes
developing a 20-year electric power plan that will guarantee adequate and reliable energy at the lowest
economic and environmental cost to the Northwest. The plan emphasizes energy conservation as a key
resource. http://www.nwcouncil.org/about/Default.htm
The Energy Project is a partnership between the State of Washington Department of Community,
Trade and Economic Development and the Washington Community Action Agency Partnership, with
the Opportunity Council as the lead fiscal agency for the project. The project represents the anti-poverty
interests on energy issues throughout the state including the leveraging of funds, program design,
capacity building, and policies affecting these under represented households.
Legislators (House and Senate Energy Committees) are key democratically elected officials that look
after energy matters for the State of Washington.
2:00-4:00PM Tour of University of Washington and its 5 MW gas cogeneration facility
Power plant – with bus parking – at 3900 Jefferson Road, Seattle WA 98195. Tour by
Mark Kirschenbaum, Asst Director, Campus Utilities, Facilities Services, 206-616-8498,
markki@u.washington.edu
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Bus parking and study tour participant drop off at parking lot C14 on map: (quadrant P-
12)
Source: http://www.washington.edu/home/maps/southcentral.html
6:00 PM Dinner on own. See Suggested Restaurants from Day 1 of trip
Reservations for 13 people (group led by ERC) at 6pm
Wild Ginger
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1401 3rd Avenue (corner of 3rd & Union)
(206) 623-4450 Jacquelyn
http://www.wildginger.net/
One check plus 18% gratuity
Accommodation: Warwick Seattle Hotel
Saturday 4 October 2008
6:30-8:45AM Breakfast in Brasserie Margaux (vouchers provided)
Can also be used for room service but will incur a 20% gratuity
9:00 AM Please meet in hotel lobby for bus transport to Everett (~40 mins)
9:15 AM Drive to Everett (~40 mins)
10:00 AM Future of Flight Aviation Center (optional)
8415 Paine Field Blvd, Mukilteo
425-438-8100
http://www.futureofflight.org/planavisit.html#BoeingTourInformation
NOTICE:
Due to the labor dispute at the Boeing Company, Tours to the Boeing Everett factory have been temporarily suspended. An
alternative program at the Future of Flight Aviation Center is being offered until the dispute is over. The alternate tour
includes a movie in the Boeing Theater, a Boeing guided Paine Field bus tour from the Future of Flight to the Flying Heritage
Collection (reduced rate admission available) featuring views of the flight line, and a Boeing guided bus tour back to the
Future of Flight Aviation Center. Estimated time for the experience is between 45 – 90 minutes. No advance reservations
are required. Admission is $7.50 adults, $4 for children under 15. Price includes admission to the Future of Flight gallery,
Strato Deck and access to both The Boeing Store and the Future of Flight Store. There are no height restrictions, and cameras
are permitted on the alternate tour. Questions: Call 1-800-464-1476
1:00 PM Return to Warwick Hotel – sight seeing in Seattle
6:00 PM Dinner on own - See Suggested Restaurants from Day 1 of trip
Reservations for 13 people (group led by ERC) at 6pm
Dahlia Lounge
201 4th Avenue (corner of 4th & Virginia)
(206)682-4142 Dennis
http://www.tomdouglas.com/dahlia/index.html
Accommodation: Warwick Seattle Hotel
Sunday 5 October 2008
6:30-8:45AM Breakfast in Brasserie Margaux (vouchers provided)
Can also be used for room service but will incur a 20% gratuity
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7:00 AM ERC, EPPO and utilities: depart for SeaTac Airport for UA8281 FLIGHT (10AM
departure) for Regulatory Tour in Canada (British Columbia and Alberta)
11:00 AM Other Participants:
-- Departure for SeaTac for NW7 flight (2:30pm Departure) to fly back to Bangkok
-- Other participants: travel on own
Airport Transportation:
You will depart the hotel three hours prior to your flight departure time by Ace Transportation. Contact is
Omar (206)730-4000. Please be in lobby no later than 15 minutes prior to the bus departure time. Your
driver will take you via Van or SUV (depending on group size) to the Seattle-Tacoma Airport (30 min drive).
International Departure
Please check in two to three hours prior to departure for all international flights. Unless the airline specifies
otherwise, assume that all international flights must be confirmed 48 - 72 hours before departure.
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US Culture and Customs
Information for the Business Traveler
Because of its history, the United States has a society with many different classes, groups, races
and lifestyles. Within each of these groups, individual members are also quite different from one
another. No one behaves exactly like anyone else. There are, however, characteristics, which
most people have in common.
Business Visits
Business tends to be extremely punctual. It is a good idea to try to arrive on time, or even a little
early. If you know that you will be arriving late, you should telephone ahead to let them know of
the delay. If a business meeting takes place over a meal, expect the business discussions to begin
after everyone has ordered their meal, sometimes as soon as everyone is seated. Socializing tends
to occur after the business is concluded, not before. This is in contrast with the practice in many
other countries, where the purpose of the meal is to socialize with and get to know each other
before any business is discussed.
Tipping
Restaurants do not include a service charge in the bill, so you should tip the waiter 15%-20% of
the total bill. Tipping is only appropriate in restaurants which offer table service. You do not tip
the cashier in a fast food restaurant. The words "tip" and "gratuity" are used interchangeably,
with "gratuity" having a slightly more formal connotation.
Taxi drivers expect to get a tip equal to 15% of the total fare. If the driver was especially helpful
or got you to your destination more quickly than you expected, give a 20% tip.
Hotel bellhops expect a $1 tip for helping you with your bags. If you order room service, the
gratuity is included in the bill. Coat checkroom attendants expect $1 per coat. Hairdressers and
barbers expect a tip of 15% of the bill. Valet parking attendants expect a $1 tip.
If you are in doubt, ask whether it is appropriate to tip or whether a gratuity is included in the bill.
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