FD surely sit down saying: this part caters for x, while this caters for y. They must also realize by now some features don't fit in certain ways.
FD must also realise that ED is in dire need of emergent content generated by the game. The automated BGS system provides some of that, Powerplay can do that too but its currently hamstrung by modes that bring everything down to bar chart chasing.
Early on FD saw how much dev input is needed with Powerplay, and how many times they botched tending it. The evidence is quite clear how they backed away from direct intervention to the point of ignoring it. Misleading Galnet stories, promised features not appearing (like collapse), data not being posted, server problems, Power decals appearing late and incomplete, PP bobbleheads being stuck in limbo, it just goes on and on.
At least with an Open Powerplay it allows pledges to entertain each other as they fight for dominance. It might not be content for everyone, but its given ED something it did not have before made from a 'dead' feature essentially for free using whats already avaialble. But as you say, 'Potential gain, potential loss - unknown at this time.'