The Phase III Hearing on DAO Docket Issues, specifically concerning Rocky Mountain Power's (RMP) rate case, took place in Utah on March 23, 2025. The meeting primarily focused on the introduction and examination of various exhibits related to the Beachy Creek Fire and its causes, including discussions on utility negligence.

During the session, several exhibits were circulated among the parties involved, including a document from the Oregon Department of Forestry. The presiding officials emphasized the importance of marking and admitting these documents as they were discussed. Notably, the hearing included a detailed examination of the causes of the Beachy Creek Fire, which was attributed to both natural and human factors, including negligence.

Key discussions revolved around the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement's (NCASI) briefing note on the 2020 Labor Day fires, which indicated that while human negligence was a factor, the primary causes of the fire's rapid spread were environmental conditions such as drought and strong winds. The examination revealed that the NCASI document did not explicitly attribute human ignitions to utility negligence, a point that was highlighted during cross-examination.

The hearing also addressed objections regarding the introduction of new evidence, specifically a report from the Oregon Department of Forestry that had been issued shortly before the hearing. The presiding officials allowed the introduction of this report for the purpose of impeaching the credibility of witness testimony regarding fire attributions.

As the session progressed, the officials decided to take a break to allow the witness time to review the newly introduced documents. This decision underscored the complexity of the discussions and the importance of thorough examination of evidence in determining the factors contributing to the fires in question.

The outcomes of this hearing are significant as they may influence future regulatory decisions regarding utility operations and their responsibilities in fire prevention and management. The next steps will involve further examination of the evidence presented and continued discussions on the implications for Rocky Mountain Power's rate case.