20200110Hornback Petition for Reconsideration.pdf

January 10, 2020
Petition to Reconsider
Reference: Case # IPC-E-I8-15
Order No. 34509
Idaho Power Utilities Commission
RECEIVED
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IPUC Commissioners.
With all due respect, nothing within Case No. IPC-E-18-15 Order No. 34509 provides any reasonable
grounds for future customers to invest in a solar installation while uncertainty regarding the net
metering program persists. In fact, the immense uncertainty of the proposed grandfathering date
prevents any reasonable individual from investing in solar power who did not have a financial
commitrnent by December 20s, 2019. lt is unlikely anyone would sign a contract for a solar installation
given that the existing net metering policy is now in flux. Without a reliable net metering policy in
place, solar installers will not be able to ethically nor reasonably explain the economics ofa solar
investnent to potential customers. This could place the entire solar industry on hiatus until
comprehensive studies are completed and a new net metering policy is reinstated. The economic
recpercussions to solar installers will be manifold. Moreover, the timeline on these changes are as
uncertain as the changes themselves, further creating a difficult plafform for conveying the current state
of affairs to inquiring parties.
My name is Micah Homback, and I've been working for a solar installer here in Garden City, ID for the
last 4 years. Since I've been working in this industry, I have closely observed the ongoing net metering
debate. After close observation, I recognize Case # IPC-E-18-15 Order No. 34509 as the most
detrimental to my ability to honestly and clearly provide the terms of investment for my future solar
customers.
I am petitioning the IPUC to reconsider the proposed date ofDecember 20,2019 and extend
grandfathering dates to include all installed systems up until the new net metering policy has been
finalized and approved.
I appreciate your time and consideration,
Micah Homback
209 E 34'h St.
Garden City, ID 83714
[phone]
[e-mail]