20120522Comment.pdf

Jean Jewell
From: [e-mail]
Sent: Monday, May 21, 2012 11:51 AM
To: Jean Jewell; Beverly Barker; Gene Fadness
Subject: PUC Comment Form
A Comment from Bob Van Arnem follows:
Case Number: GNR-E-11-83
Name: Bob Van Arnem
Address:
City: Eagle
State: Idaho
Zip:
Daytime Telephone:
Contact E-Mail: vanarnem(@cableone.net
Name of Utility Company: Idaho Power
Acknowledge: acknowledge
Please describe your comment briefly:
We are opposed to any requirement that mandates Idaho Power purchase power from generation
sources other than water, gas, and coal. We oppose subsidies of any kind for alternative
energy sources that result in us paying more for power because of this requirement. We also
oppose the politicization of power generation and delivery. We don't agree with Idaho courts
that utility company investors are entitled to a 'fair' return (up to 10%) on their
investment when investor driven initiatives result in the requirement mentioned above. We
have been conscientious in our consumption of power, and we are not pleased that seemingly
'every time we turn around' there is another rate case. We also believe that comparing our
rates to other states provides no real comfort, because Idaho Power and its investors can use
this argument to apply pressure for increased rates to bring Idaho 'more in line' with these
states. The footprint of a coal fired power plant, a gas plant, or a dam is smaller than the
footprint of a wind farm. We don't like hazy air because of power generation, but wind
turbines strike us as an expansive blight on the landscape. We ask that the IPUC change the
way prices are set for energy' from QF projects and the 'Pricing Model' proposed by Idaho
Power.
The form submitted on http://www.puc.idaho.gov/forms/ipucl/ipuc.html
IP address is 184.155.102.178
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