20250722Comment_1.pdf

The following comment was submitted via PUCWeb:
Name:Troy Heninger
Submission Time: Jul 22 2025 1:49AM
Email: tk buys((:byahoo.com
Telephone: [phone]
Address: 2274 S Georgetown Way
Boise, ID 83709
Name of Utility Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-25-16
Comment: "Dear Commissioners,
I am writing to express concerns regarding Idaho Power's proposed general rate increase
and the associated increase in the residential service charge from $15 to$25, as outlined
in their May 30, 2025, filing. While I recognize the need for investments in grid reliability,
wildfire resilience, and operational costs, I respectfully urge the IPUC to scrutinize the
proposal to ensure fairness and transparency for all customers.
First, I am concerned about Idaho Power's proposed increase in the residential service
charge from $15 to $25, following recent increases from $5 in 2023 to$10 in 2024 and $15
in 2025 (as reported by the Idaho Statesman, December 28, 2023). While Idaho Power
states that this uniform fixed charge increase aims to make fixed cost collection more
equitable among residential customers, the lack of clear justification or transparent criteria
for what constitutes"equitable" raises questions. I urge the IPUC to require Idaho Power to
provide a clear and transparent definition of"equitable"to ensure that this standard is
consistently applied and justified for all customers, in line with fair regulatory practices
across the state. This change disproportionately burdens customers with lower energy
usage, such as those with on-site solar generation, for whom the fixed charge represents a
Larger portion of their total bill. If the goal is fairness, I urge the IPUC to scrutinize whether
this substantial increase in the fixed charge truly balances the utility's needs with the
financial impact on low-usage and solar customers, and to ensure Idaho Power provides a
detailed explanation of how"equity" is defined and achieved.
Second, I am concerned about the separation of Idaho Power's general rate case from
ongoing discussions regarding compensation for on-site solar generation. These issues are
inherently interconnected, as changes to solar compensation directly impact customer
bills and the utility's revenue. Addressing these matters independently allows for
inconsistent arguments that may obscure the true financial impact on customers. I
respectfully request that the IPUC evaluate the rate case in conjunction with solar
compensation policies to ensure a holistic approach that balances the utility's needs with
the interests of customers who have invested in renewable energy. I appreciate Idaho
Power's efforts to maintain a reliable and resilient electric system. However, I urge the
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IPUC to carefully review the proposed rate increase and service charge hike to ensure they
are justified, transparent, and equitable for all customers.
Thank you for the opportunity to provide input, and I trust the Commission will consider
these concerns during the review process."
Sincerely,
Troy Heninger
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