Idaho Power is proposing changes to its solar net metering program for heavy use customers like irrigators that could make it harder for farmers and ranchers to go solar in the future and impact the financial investment of those who currently have solar. There's so much promise for Idaho's agricultural communities to utilize solar as an option to control their growing power costs, gain energy independence, build resilience, and directly benefit from the state’s transition to a clean energy economy. Idaho Power's proposal limits that opportunity. This is about fairness for farmers who want a choice in how they meet their energy needs and stabilize their energy costs.
The Idaho Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is holding a virtual public workshop on Mon, Sept 28 at 6pm MT, where PUC staff will provide an overview of Idaho Power’s proposal to the public and take in formal questions and comments. The formal hearing for the proposal in front of the Commissioners will be held via telephone on Tues, Oct 13 at 6pm MT, and written comments can be submitted until Oct 27. If you are an Idaho Power irrigation customer or connected with farming communities in Idaho Power's region, please attend the upcoming workshop and hearing to speak up!
Help us share the following messages with the PUC:
Idaho Power should…
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Wait to establish a cutoff date for solar owners to lock in the current net metering program until it has its new program in place. A Dec 1, 2020 cutoff is premature!
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First conduct its required “value of solar” study to determine new and fair export rates for customer-owned solar.
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Treat farmers who already own solar the same as residential solar-owners by allowing a 25-year legacy treatment. 10 years is not enough!
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Lift the 100 kW/meter cap on solar installations and allow farmers to invest in solar systems that meet their farm’s full energy needs.
The PUC should...
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Extend the comment period beyond the fall harvest season to provide a better opportunity for those most impacted by these changes to adequately engage.
Learn more on this Fact Sheet and sign-up to stay informed, engaged, and get more details on how to participate in upcoming public comment opportunities.
Hear about Idaho farmer Russ Schiermeier's success with solar on his farm in Bruneau: