At the same time, the legislative committee, via its State Energy Policy Working Group, is progressing in defining its own policy priorities, said Rep. Ralph Becker, D-Salt Lake. Four sub-groups have been created to study energy development; efficiency, consumption and consumers; transmission and transportation; and government organizations.

The committee sub-groups met this week and submitted preliminary reports. Over the next few weeks, Becker said the committee will analyze those working papers and develop a single comprehensive report for review next month.

So far, Becker said, the committee is "not at all settled" on its recommendations, and there are "still a few burrs under the saddle" on several issues. But, he said, work is progressing.

Both the working group and Nelson were put on notice Wednesday, when committee chairman Sen. Gregory Bell, R-Fruit Heights, said, "We want an integrated energy policy, and we want that implemented in the next four to five months, whether that be through the (legislative) session or administratively."

While Nelson said she shared Bell's goal, and his sense of urgency, she cautioned against rushing the process.

"I think an energy policy done wrong will be more harmful than it does good," she said. "I would issue caution that we be very careful, and that we make sure that the policy we move forward on is fact-based."

The Public Utilities and Technology Interim Committee will meet next on Oct. 12.

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