Protect Fair Solar Rates for Net Metering!

October 25, 2021

This fall, Idaho Power Company is starting a public study that will significantly impact the future development of distributed solar energy production in Idaho.  This study will determine if Idaho has a fair and affordable net metering rate schedule for customers, or not.  This next month is going to be a critical time to speak up for an electric grid that fosters energy independence, creation of green jobs and the public’s best interests by growing solar!  Register here for an upcoming webinar to learn more!

Idaho Power and utilities around the country are seeking to change net metering programs to make investing in your own energy system more difficult and expensive.  For years, citizens around the country have established that local energy systems help customers meet their own needs while strengthening local grids, avoiding reliance on long-distance power lines, and supporting a local energy economy.

The public has made it clear that individually-owned rooftop solar systems and other distributed energy systems should remain a viable economic and environmental solution for businesses, homeowners, and government agencies. 

We’ve seen Idaho residents demand this for a variety of reasons, including:

  • Idaho Power has a 100% clean energy goal - let the public join in and contribute to that goal with fair programs

  • Customers of all types deserve programs that help make the right choice for their family’s energy use, ensuring pathways to universal access for all Idaho residents to participate in energy production

  • Local clean energy systems provide grid security and reliability while protecting our climate and public lands from catastrophic events like wildfires

  • Distributed energy system owners should be fairly compensated for the services they provide and programs should enable a local energy economy

Idaho Power wants to make it harder for you and your community to achieve your own energy independence.  Be sure to take action and tell the Public Utilities Commission you want to see a strong incentive program in place for distributed solar, and that the study of solar is done fairly and thoroughly, and is made accessible to the public.

We're joining with our partners at Idaho Conservation League to host a webinar and comment workshop on November 16th at 6pm MT.  Register here for the webinar.

We're here to help you learn more about how this issue can help ensure that Idaho achieves 100% clean energy for all.  Read on below for other opportunities to engage.

Other ways to weigh-in

Tuesday, October 26th at 6pm MT, Virtual Public Workshop by PUC Staff.  This is for the purposes of explaining the docket.  One can ask questions and give staff off-the-record feedback. 

  • To participate by phone call 1-415-655-0001, and enter meeting number 2450 964 1384 when prompted.
  • To participate online, please visit idahogov.webex.com, and enter meeting number 2450 964 1384. At the next window, please enter your name, e-mail address and this password: OctoberWorkshop.

Thursday, October 28th at 6pm MT, Telephonic Public Hearing.  This is the opportunity to make verbal comments on record directly to the Commissioners. 

  • For those who want to call in and submit verbal testimony: 1-800-920-7487 Participant code: 6674 832#

 Tuesday, November 30th – Deadline for written comment submissions.  It is quite easy to submit written comments, sooner can help. These go in the public record.  Want help?  Attend our webinar with Idaho Conservation League on November 16th.  Register here for the webinar.