20260303Decision Memo.pdf

DECISION MEMORANDUM
TO: COMMISSIONER LODGE
COMMISIONER HAMMOND
COMMISIONER HARDIE
COMMISSION SECRETARY
COMMISSION STAFF
LEGAL
FROM: REBECCA COTTRELL, COMMISSION STAFF
JEFFREY R. LOLL, DEPUTY ATTORNEY GENERAL
DATE: MARCH 3, 2026
SUBJECT: IN THE MATTER OF ROCKY MOUNTAIN POWER'S TARIFF
ADVICE RELATED TO CHANGES TO SCHEDULE 21 —LOW INCOME
WEATHERIZATION SERVICES; TARIFF ADVICE NO. PAC-TAE-26-01.
BACKGROUND
On January 27, 2026, Rocky Mountain Power d/b/a PacifiCorp ("Company") submitted Tariff
Advice No. PAC-TAE-26-01 to the Idaho Public Utilities Commission("Commission")requesting an
order approving an increase to the minimum administrative fee for its Low-Income Weatherization
Services program ("LIW") from $50 to $100 per job and an increase to the maximum administrative
payments for each tier by$150. Application at 1. The Company also plans to shift the annual program
cycle from July I"through July 30t'. It does not expect these changes to have a significant impact on
cost-effectiveness of the program.Id. The Company filed a proposed Schedule 21 and requested a July
1, 2026, effective date.
The current LIW administrative fee structure was established in 2006 and has remained
unchanged. Id. Since then, the program has been impacted by changes such as increases in
administrative workload, project complexity, technological advancements, and other factors such as
inflation. Id. The Company proposes to increase administrative fees to more accurately reflect
administrative efforts and ensure fair compensation for the time and resources spent on each project.
Id. Additionally, the Company proposes to shift the program cycle to align with state agencies'
program cycles. Id.
Agencies that serve the LIW program voluntarily provide energy education for customers,
covering topics that include planned measures, basic energy-saving practices, routine maintenance
DECISION MEMORANDUM - 1 - MARCH 3, 2026

such as furnace filter replacement,and distribution of energy-saving pamphlets and kits.The Company
proposes to make education services a requirement as part of its LIW program moving forward and
will provide a $100 incentive to agencies for each educated household. Application at 1-2.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
After reviewing the tariff submitted by the Company, Staff believes the proposed changes
to its Schedule 21 will have a minimal impact on cost-effectiveness and may increase program
participation. Staff recommends the Commission approve the Company's Schedule 21 as filed.
COMMISSION DECISION
Does the Commission wish to approve the Company's proposal to change its Schedule 21
to increase administrative fees, shift its program cycle, and require energy education services?
Rebecca l
Commission Staff
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DECISION MEMORANDUM - 2 - MARCH 3, 2026