Productivity

D.98-04-059 directed intervenors to demonstrate productivity by assigning a reasonable dollar value to the benefits of their participation to ratepayers. The costs of an intervenor's participation should bear a reasonable relationship to the benefits realized their participation. This showing assists us in determining the overall reasonableness of the request.

Although we adopted many of WEC's recommendations, it is difficult to attribute specific quantifiable benefits to its participation. Over the life of Mohave, or alternatives, however, net financial savings deriving from recommendations by WEC will likely exceed the intervenor compensation claim. For example, urging the Commission to explore alternatives that could either replace Mohave if it is closed permanently, or work simultaneously with Mohave if it is kept open, may prove to be a prudent course of action. In addition, WEC's contributions on water issues was valuable to the Commission's understanding of why the N-Aquifer would no longer be used to slurry the coal and why an alternative water source should be found before determining the fate of Mohave. WEC was instrumental in advancing our understanding of the C-Aquifer, and we were persuaded that it was in the best interest of SCE ratepayers to authorize the funding of the C-Aquifer feasibility and environmental studies. Thus, we find WEC's participation productive.

Finally, in determining compensation, we take into consideration the market rates for similar services from comparably qualified persons. In this proceeding, WEC used two advocates and policy experts on energy matters, five policy experts on native matters and one "paralegal."¹⁰