20061206Rep Sharon Block Comments.pdf

SHARON BLOCK
DISTRICT 24-
TWIN FALLS COUNTY
COMMITTEES
CHAIRMAN
HEALTH & WELFARE
HOME ADDRESS
1093 LAKEWOOD DRIVE
TWIN FALLS, IDAHO 83301
[phone]
BUSINESS
EDUCATION
House of Representatives
State of Idaho
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December 5, 2006
Idaho Public Utilities Commission
o. Box 83720
Boise, Idaho 83720-0074
Dear Commissioners:
This letter is in regard to the application by Idaho Power Company to enter into a sales agreement
with Magic Wind Park LLC, Case Number (IPC-06-26).
As a representative of the people of Idaho and as the chairman of the Health and Welfare
Committee in the House of Representatives, it is my honor to support the sales agreement
between Idaho Power Company and Magic Wind Park LLC.
During the past year I have been studying energy issues in Idaho and have attended all of the
Interim Energy Meetings at which the proposal for Idaho s Energy Plan was developed. The
committee has placed renewable energy resources as a top priority. In addition, the objectives of
the plan state the importance of protecting Idaho s public health, safety and natural environment
as well as promoting sustainable economic growth, job creation, and rural economic
development. The development of wind energy meets all of these objectives.
It is in the best interest of the people of Idaho to develop Idaho s resources, wind being one of
Idaho s greatest. Idaho s rural citizens are in need of a boost to their economy, while at the same
time protecting the health and safety of their families. This proposal is an excellent means of
working toward that goal.
Clean air and water and quality of life are among Idaho s greatest assets. Throughout the state
community leaders agree that these qualities are bringing growth to Idaho. Wind energy is
consistent with these valuable assets.
Climate change is a threat to the economy and way of life in Idaho. The possibility of climate
change affecting the hydrologic cycle, creating a negative impact to our significant hydro power
resource is real. Negative impacts to our forests, our agriculture, and the health and safety of our
people are a real concern, as well. Wind power has no pollutants or greenhouse gasses that may
put at risk these Idaho treasures.
Page 2
December 5, 2006
On behalf of the economics, health, safety, and well-being of the people of Idaho, it is my request
that the Public Utilities Commission approve this application for the development of wind energy
in our state.
Sincerely,
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Sharon Block
State Representative
District #24