20250721Comment_1.pdf

The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name: Chris Middleton
Submission Time: Jul 20 2025 4:OOPM
Email: chmiddC�ieee.org
Telephone: [phone]
Address: 2303 N Hickory Way
Meridian, ID 83646
Name of Utility Company: Intermountain Gas Company
Case ID: INT-G-25-02
Comment: "As you are no doubt aware, both Intermountain Gas and Idaho Power have
submitted requests for large rate increases. Intermountain Gas in INT-G-25-02 is 11.46%
for residential customers. Idaho Power in IPC-E-25-16 is 17.35%for residential customers.
Each request is materially in excess of the inflation rate and the average growth in incomes,
and so each would burden area families. Combined and at the same time, these would be
a significant increase and burden to area families. Both requests note service area growth
as at least one factor for the rate increases. Fundamentally, growth should pay for itself. If it
doesn't, then existing rate payers are being unfairly burdened by this growth.
Further, I've also heard that at least one large data center is being built in the area, likely
due to the currently low utility costs. I encourage the PUC to be very thoughtful in what it
invites and allows in terms of incentives for such companies to come to the area, at the
expense of the overall community and existing rate payers. For reference, the state of
Virginia is starting to see numerous new data centers, which are creating significant cost
and environmental impacts. Please take action now to stay ahead of this impact.
Thank you for considering these comments before reaching decisions on these requests:'
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