Two energy policies in particular contributed to the disastrous results for ratepayers that became apparent at the end of “the lost decade.” First, there was the failure of energy utilities during most of that period to engage in long-term planning known as “least cost planning” or “integrated resource planning.” Integrated resource planning is a rigorous process that examines the full range of options – including both supply-side (generating resources) and demand-side (energy efficiency and conservation) – available to a utility to meet its resource needs at the lowest reasonable cost to its customers. Had integrated resource planning been in place prior to the “lost decade,” the risk associated with nearly exclusive reliance on coal-fired generation would have been apparent, and the massive rate increases that followed when coal prices soared could have been avoided. Moreover, the opportunity to diversify into natural gas-fired generation as the shale gas revolution was unfolding could have been thoroughly explored.