HomeMy WebLinkAbout20231025Comments_49.pdf1
The following comment was submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Marlaine Babbit
Submission Time: Oct 21 2023 9:35AM
Email: webetoys5@yahoo.com
Telephone: 209-606-9840
Address: 13865 locust ln
Nampa , ID 83686
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I believe Idaho Power should NOT be allowed to increase rates to solar genera�ng
customers. and now in addi�on to the way they want to charge/credit us they now want to increase our
flat fee for maintenance. they are benefi�ng from our solar genera�on and s�ll want us to pay them"
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The following comment was submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Gordon Sorensen
Submission Time: Oct 22 2023 11:29AM
Email: gordons@fastmail.com
Telephone: 208-972-3936
Address: 14001 E Blacks Creek Rd
Boise, ID 83716
Name of U�lity Company: idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I am definitely against these changes to the Net Metering program. A few years ago the PUC
in case number IPC-E-18-15 issued Order No. 34509 which denied Idaho Power's request to modify the
then exis�ng Net Metering program. Our personal grid �e solar panel system was among the many
covered by the grandfather clause to exempt those systems from Idaho Power's efforts to decrease the
amount Idaho Power compensated the grid �e solar panel owner for any excess power that was
generated.
In that Order No. 34509 one of the reasons for denying that request was the fact that Idaho Power did
not include any data analysis that actually supported their claims of "not paying their (owners of the grid
�e solar systems) fair share".
In wading through the "suppor�ng" informa�on for this latest Idaho Power's proposal to change the rate
schedules for Net Metering, Idaho Power submited an astonishing amount of informa�on (data?). Most
of which was not germane to iden�fying any actual costs incurred by Idaho Power's implementa�on of
the current Net metering program. I saw nothing recognizing the fact that Net metering customers
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reduce peak demand by using less power from the grid and typically the system actually supplies power
in peak demand periods. Further more Idaho Power has for some�me charged monthly access fees for
access to the their grid, which supposedly covers their fixed costs for the customer's access. Idaho
power has programs where they pay customers to allow Idaho Power to turn off the customer's air
condi�oner or other significant electrical loads. Why is that none of their calcula�ons include that?
I find it rather interes�ng that one of the PUC comments in the Order No. 34509 was "The public was not
on adequate no�ce that this docket would result in anything more than a study". In that case Idaho
Power simply skipped over the data analysis part and went right to implemen�ng the changes to the rate
structure.
In this current case IPC-E023-14 Idaho Power decided to supply a huge amount of data/numbers but s�ll
no real analysis of the cost/benefits of the exis�ng Net Metering program. I am lead to believe that
there is no data to support changing the Net Metering program, not in Dec of 2019 and not in October
of 2023.
I was astonished and grateful back in Dec of 2019 with the PUC's response to Idaho Power. This request
needs a similar response.
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The following comment was submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Jeffrey Stevenson
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 7:44AM
Email: allawishish.steve@gmail.com
Telephone: 406-212-1268
Address: 22624 Aura Vista Way
Caldwell, ID 83607
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Good Morning, As a Private Power Generator, we invested in Solar Power for numerous
reasons. 1) Owning a home that was powered by Solar, both PV and Thermal was a lifelong aspira�on. 2)
Clean Energy Benefits the Environment. 3) Zero Power Bill 4) We believe that every house in America
that could benefit from Solar should have Solar on it. Idaho Power created an environment that drew
large numbers into Solar with the a beneficial rate structure. Now they’re taking that away instead of
con�nuing with a program the benefits them and all Residen�al Generators. We generate 16.2 MwH
annually combining that with all other residen�al Generators. Without the economic support that the
current system provides Solar Providers and Installers, I suspect many will go out of business, this new
rate system lacking incen�ves will cause a radical downturn in new customers and new systems. We
appreciate your support!"
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The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Mauricio Steffen
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 12:11PM
Email: mauriciosteffen@live.com
Telephone: 208-703-0255
Address: 17323 N. Ronan Ave.
Nampa, ID 83687-9269
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power Company
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I am advoca�ng for the PUC to help stop Idaho Power from decreasing the solar credit
earning poten�al on the basis of the points listed below, as well as help to beter incen�vize more u�lity
customers the poten�al op�on to opt for solar power.
• Idaho Power has a 100% clean energy goal - keep the public interested and contribu�ng to
that goal with fair programs, including sufficient solar credit earning poten�al. Distributed energy system
owners should be fairly compensated for the services they provide and programs should enable a local
energy economy.
• Customers of all types deserve programs that help make the right choice for their family’s
energy use, ensuring pathways to universal access for all Idaho & Oregon residents to par�cipate in
energy produc�on
• Local clean energy systems provide grid security and reliability while protec�ng our climate and
public lands from catastrophic events like wildfires
• Solar programs provide countless, high profile jobs for diverse groups of people. From
administra�ve and electrical, inspectors, and u�lity employees alike. Please don't downsize jobs in Idaho
and Oregon by decreasing the public interest in the growing solar industry by reducing their incen�ve for
clean energy.
Thank you."
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Name: Stephen Alder
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 12:41PM
Email: stephen.d.alder@gmail.com
Telephone: 971-272-4582
Address: 11631 N nelson Lane
Pocatello, id 83202
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
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Comment: "The rate changes as posited by Idaho Power are confusing and I cannot understand in
layman's terms what they entail. This tells me that they are not interested in telling their customers in
plain American, what they intend to do and why. If the photovoltaic generator are producing more than
they take in, why do we need to pay more to keep an account open? This indicates an unwillingness to
be transparent."
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The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Marc As�n
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 3:15PM
Email: mtas�n@me.com
Telephone: 208-731-0859
Address: 719 Riverview Drive
Twin Falls, ID 83301
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "ID to whom it may concern: I am in total opposi�on to the readjustment/appor�onment of
the schedules with which Idaho power that I recently agreed. And I had to pay for the infrastructure of
the solar energy generated over the last year. This is then shared with Idaho power, and they are able to
use it for their profit. The argument of redistribu�on of wealth as a social construct for this change is
ridiculous. Their corporate structure cannot be granted authority for the redistribu�on of resources or
wealth. They have not demonstrated a financial need for the company, only an equity argument. I do not
support DEI nor ESG. Neither should the State of Idaho do not allow those of us who have taken a social
responsibility towards the environment to be pushed aside in the name of big corpora�on.
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Name: Barbara Garrison
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 3:20PM
Email: barbarajgarrison1@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-230-7052
Address: 1740 S Taggart
Boise, ID 83705
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Why was I sent this no�ce?"
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Name: Rosanne Oh
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 3:24PM
Email: Rosanne.antelli@gmail.com
Telephone: 802-309-4173
Address: 6261 s teak ave
Boise, ID 83716
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power and Solar genera�on
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Reconsider the evalua�on from Idaho Power to unfairly compensate the power genera�ng
customers. Other states provide incen�ves for green power and Idaho is con�nuing to discourage solar
and electric cars. "
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Name: Stuart Brodie
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 3:28PM
Email: sgbrodie@gmail.com
Telephone: 951-907-9074
Address: 2668 N. Finsbury Avenue
Star, ID 83669-1208
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Unfortunately I will not be able to atend the public hearing. It's a shame that this mee�ng
is being held during the middle of working hours for most people. If you are truly a public commission
and "really" care about the public's opinion, I for one, would appreciate a place and �me so that we can
all atend in order to give our tes�mony. I am opposed to the changes proposed for personal genera�on.
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Name: Rick Graff
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 3:34PM
Email: rickygraff@gmail.com
Telephone: 805-450-7023
Address: 1965 West Maracay Drive
MERIDIAN, ID 83646
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
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Comment: "We, the public with solar panels, have made an investment in the power grid that helps all
ci�zens obtain the lowest cost electricity. Please don't squash the renewable energy momentum that
future genera�ons need."
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Name: Steven Kaehler
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 3:36PM
Email: sdkaehler@gmail.com
Telephone: 206-850-1645
Address: 1634 Rimview Dr
Caldwell, ID 83605-2136
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I am concerned that the on-site solar power genera�on by residen�al customers isn't being
valued as it should be. We recently had solar installed on my roof to help lower my power costs and to
lighten the load on the grid. We have been pleased with the performance now that summer is over and
we aren't using AC. We s�ll had prety good sized bills when we were using it. The current method where
we simply get kW credit for excess genera�on seems to work okay, but we've only had our system for a
few months. We don't know how it will do over the whole year. Please don't change the current
method."
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Name: Ryan Olsen
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 3:40PM
Email: ryan.s.olsen@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-908-2044
Address: 2345 N. Ayrshire Pl
Meridian, ID 83646
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "ID
Please do not allow Idaho Power the authority to implement changes to the current compensa�on
structure for customers with onsite generators, either now or in the future."
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Name: Franklin Smith
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 3:53PM
Email: bsmith@boisestate.edu
Telephone: 208-866-1653
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Address: 6024 N PLANO LN
BOISE, ID 83703
Name of U�lity Company: IDAHO POWER
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "The proposed changes to solar genera�ng credits is simply another example of a corporate
en�ty wishing to alter the rules to supplement their botom line. Even though all Idaho Power
Customers who are currently genera�ng solar power, added the solar produc�on based upon the offer
for "credit recompense" made to them at the �me of installa�on, Idaho Power would now like to make
changes to what we will be compensated. We have been par�cipa�ng for about 15 months now and
find the proposed change to our compensa�on/credits is contrary to fair prac�ces.
IDAHO POWER SHOULD BE HELD TO THE IN-FORCE AND AGREED TO STIPULATIONS AT THE TIME THE
SOLAR GENERATION EXPENSE WAS INCURRED BY THEIR CUSTOMERS. WE WERE AND ARE LARGELY
DRIVEN TO BE PARTICIPANTS WORKING TOWARDS A COOPERATIVE AND SUSTAINABLE ELECTRICAL
POWER GRID. CHANGING THE TERMS OF CO-GENERATION FOR CURRENT USERS/PRODUCERS, FROM
THOSE SPECIFIED AND/OR IMPLIED BY IDAHO POWER FOR ANY CURRENT SOLAR CONTRIBUTORS, WILL
PRODUCE A VERY NEGATIVE RESULT AND WILL CERTAINLY REDUCE FUTURE PARTICIPATION FROM
FAMILIES IN IDAHO.
THIS PROPOSAL SHOULD BE DENIED!"
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The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Andrea Jerome
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 4:02PM
Email: andreafayedrake@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-989-9684
Address: 18934 Fargo Rd
Wilder, ID 83676
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Why just in person tes�mony? So not many people will have the ability to atend? Why not
let everyones voice be heard whether it be pre recorded message, text message, writen leter, email,
comment in a comment sec�on. Beter yet why not have a survey sent to every single solar genera�ng
customer. Where they can vote whether they agree with the proposed change and leave a comment.
Whether this survey is digital or paper and mailed.
Addi�onally I do not agree with the new proposed changes to solar genera�ng customers. Solar has
been pushed so hard in the last few years to create your own power and not have a power bill. That is
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the simple fact we got solar in the first place. To eliminate our power bill for years down the road when
we are re�red and need the extra money. We are crea�ng more power than we use currently and do not
have a power bill. I cant forsee a single solar genera�ng customer ok with what the new changes are."
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Name: Josh Fadness
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 4:11PM
Email: joshfadndess@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-961-0229
Address: 2432 Blick ln
Twin falls , ID 83301
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "This proposal is insane. It is cruel, manipula�ve, and greedy. This does not benefit a single
customer. It only hurts the people that could benefit from solar or other op�ons. People who actually
need it because Idaho power is consistently and dras�cally raising peoples prices. This proposal will hurt
all homeowners with solar. People take on loans and pay interest and have a system (1-1 net metering) in
place that jus�fies taking on that commitment and helps us towards our state and na�ons goal of going
green. This CASH GRAB by ID power is despicable. It’s stealing from its own customer and neighbors.
People who pay to get solar and have ID power sell there power at a profit and not return the en�rety of
the power that ID power used from the residents system is WRONG. Not allowing the public to show up
to speak and voice there opinions is wrong. Everything about this is obvious we are being taken
advantage of. DON’T TURN YOUR BACK ON IDAHO."
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Name: Anne Weber
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 4:17PM
Email: organized@cox.net
Telephone: 208-720-3779
Address: 611 E Elm Street
Hailey, ID 83333
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I would like Idaho Power to con�nue its current financial reimbursements to customers who
currently have solar generators for home & commercial opera�ons as well as future solar customers
in Idaho. Hydro, coal & other sources of power are not sustainable any more. We need to
encourage more solar so as to reverse global warming. Idaho currently lags behind the rest of our
country & this would be a great opportunity to prove Idaho is forward thinking & encourage
more solar install for individuals & businesses. "
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Name: David Wallas
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 4:29PM
Email: bwana_dave@yahoo.com
Telephone: 208-869-5393
Address: 9704 West Bridgegate Street
Boisr, ID 83709
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "My family and I have lived in Idaho for over 20 years and during this �me we have cheered
on solar and wind power produc�on. In many States, energy companies buy back addi�onal power
produced from home solar programs and partner with solar companies because they know that as
popula�ons in the State grow, more energy is needed. I am not going to install solar if it takes me 20
years to pay off the equipment and get to a break even stage. By then it will almost be �me to get new
panels and start again. If Idaho Power covered the cost of panels, gave a power use discount based on
panel output and homeowners paid to have them installed—it would be a win for more power in the
grid and a win for homeowners for helping to support clean energy."
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Name: Mark Helsley
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 4:57PM
Email: markhelsley@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-404-3734
Address: 3389N 2800 E
Twin Falls, ID 83301
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Hello, I cannot make an in person comment and would like for the commission to reconsider
the in person only tes�mony on this issue. I would also ask the commission to consider the financial
reimbursement rate that Idaho Power is proposing. The purpose of my solar panels is to help reduce
my monthly bills and hedge the infla�on increases. Idaho Power's proposal will require me to pay them
every month while they make money on my solar genera�on. Thank you for your considera�on in this
mater."
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The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Laureen Strong
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 5:25PM
Email: jandlstrong@msn.com
Telephone: 208-283-1706
Address: 2151 W LONESOME DOVE ST
MERIDIAN, ID 83646
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Please reconsider the "in-person" tes�mony and the hours of the hearing as well as the
general issues with the proposal."
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Name: Jus�n LaFee
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 6:39PM
Email: jlafee@hotmail.com
Telephone: 208-484-3577
Address: 2188 N Rubine Lane
Kuna, ID 83634
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Moving from net metering at the retail rate to an ECR model is wholly to the benefit of Idaho
Power’s profitability and not to the customers who have undertaken the not insignificant costs to install
and maintain residen�al systems. The residen�al model rates currently allow for budge�ng and a
reasonable payback period of a solar array and provides Idaho Power a highly flexible decentralized
power genera�on service that has improved Idaho Power’s ability to sell electricity to other customers
even during peak demand. If the decision is to remove the retail rate net metering then owners of solar
generated power should be able to broker rates individually or collec�vely to sell their power on the
open market. "
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Name: Pamela Davis
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 7:26PM
Email: padavis579@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-315-4938
Address: PO Box 26
McCall, ID 83638
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
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Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I do not agree with this proposal. Promo�ng solar energy is cri�cal. We all need to pitch in
and try to slow global warming. Penalizing homeowners is a poor policy. With all of the natural disasters
occurring worldwide, the need to diversify our energy delivery is very important, in addi�on to the
climate benefits. We are helping Idaho Power meet its energy needs in their rapidly growing service
area. This is especially true during peak usage �mes, such as irriga�on and air-condi�oning seasons.
Thank you for your �me and considera�on."
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Name: Karen Bradley
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 7:33PM
Email: kbshrink87@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-283-2481
Address: 22 CREEKSIDE CT
GARDEN VALLEY, ID 83622-5294
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I built my re�rement home in Garden Valley and closed escrow 12-2-2021. I had a big shock
of an $801 power bill in January 2022. I have experienced genuine panic with the idaho power rate
increases. I paid $36k for the solar panels I've got, and it was clear I need many more. I am semi re�red
and unable to be squeezed any further by this power company. I've spent hard earned money to be a
good steward of the environment. I would like to believe that Idaho Power is a company that reflects the
original values of na�ve Idahoans. Please honor the original terms of those who invested in solar!
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Name: Mauricio Steffen
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 8:16PM
Email: mauriciosteffen@live.com
Telephone: 208-703-0255
Address: 17323 North Ronan Avenue
Nampa, ID 83687
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power Company
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I am very concerned over the limited access to the public hearing for this mater. It is a
mater that affects Idaho Power customers across the state but is only happening once and during
business hours preven�ng many people from commen�ng. This coupled with the user "unfriendliness"
of making writen comments on this website creates an environment where people's voices are not
heard."
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Name: Brian Albertson
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 8:55PM
Email: Alby2000@hotmail.com
Telephone: 208-559-3459
Address: 4225 S. Choctaw Way
Boise, ID 83709
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Please consider all the comments regarding the proposed changes to the net metering
system. Specifically those comments regarding the limited �me for public access, the small window for
peak hour genera�on/compensa�on, and the numbers game w/ reducing the value of a generated KWh.
How is reducing the value of power generated by a solar system an incen�ve for customers to add a solar
grid to their home's roo�op? At the least home's w/ solar grid should receive equal cost for each
generated KWh, and why not add a bonus to these customers and/or a penalty to all other customers. if
solar is key component/percentange of the future electric grid, would it not be beneficial for ID power to
have a majority of it's customer w/ roo�op solar? thank you Brian"
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Name: Josh Hoisington
Submission Time: Oct 23 2023 9:04PM
Email: jlhois@gmail.com
Telephone: 303-325-6429
Address: 310 W. Greensboro Ct.
Boise, ID 83706
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "First, the hours and loca�on for a “public” mee�ng that concerns Idahoans across the en�re
state is unacceptable. Fair par�cipa�on should be a key func�on in any governmental agency, quasi or
not.
Second, Idaho Power wishes to profit from individual Idahoans investment in solar. This is an egregious
profiteering overreach by a public u�lity. A u�lity company should be expected to pay a fair and
reasonable price for any power generated, solar or hydroelectric.
This proposal should be reviewed and amended by an that is independent source, not a quasi-
governmental agency that receives funding from the u�li�es it supposedly regulates.
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Name: Dennis Burlison
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 6:32AM
Email: dennisburlison@hotmail.com
Telephone: 208-409-3560
Address: 1420 Chelsey Cir
Mountain Home , ID 83647
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Many if us have spent 40,000 plus dollars to help our community go green and reduce our
carbon footprint. Currently we s�ll have to pay a small fee for being in the grid even though we are
adding to the amount of power available. Other states actually pay their solar customers for the power
they generate while the greedy idaho power company wants to charge the people trying to save our
planet money for producing their own power. I could have payed less money and stayed on idaho power
increasing the carbon footprint they are crea�ng, but insteadI'm pushing triple the monthly rate for my
solar system in order to mask a beter world for our next genera�on. I vote no to any increase in cost to
solar users and if they keep insis�ng on this proposi�on I will just go full batery and have myself
removed permanently from the grid and they won't even get the current hookup fees. I incurrage my
fellow solo solar prac��oners to vote no as we are helping the world and should not be penalized "
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The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Bryan Siddall
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 7:16AM
Email: bryansiddall@gmail.com
Telephone: 347-479-9153
Address: 342 S Sunset Point Way
Meridian, ID 83642
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "There are major issues and conflicts with this proposal. I would ask that the board
reconsider. This will greatly affect the ability of homeowners to get a return on their investment and will
s�fle the growth of clean, solar energy. "
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Name: Rich Cotner
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 7:31AM
Email: rich@pre-engconst.com
Telephone: 208-890-2452
Address: 4905 W. View Pl.
Meridian, ID 83642
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "When I was a child my grandmother always used to tell me that I couldn't have it both ways.
That is exactly what Idaho Power is atemp�ng to get. They want to give very litle for the power we
generate but charge us full value for the power we use. By changing the period in which they evaluate
usage to a single day, they will be taking power at minimal cost from us and then reselling it back to us at
a much higher rate. We would be paying them for our own power generated that day.
The Public U�li�es Commission is supposed to assist and protect the ci�zens of this great state and I
really hope they can see through Idaho Powers atempts to cripple our efforts to be self sustaining."
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Name: Brian Herman
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 7:51AM
Email: brian.herman.live@gmail.com
Telephone: 303-378-2812
Address: 1404 N 7th St
Boise, ID 83702
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I'm opposed to rate changes proposed for home solar generators. Our private investment in
solar benefits all power consumers and reduces carbon emissions from large scale power genera�on.
We've already paid our share of the infrastructure that connects us to the grid, in the years before
installing solar. Now we're providing benefit to everyone. We should not be punished for this. Increasing
our monthy costs by 10x is unfair and inappropriate. "
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The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Jeffrey Hollingshead
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 10:10AM
Email: reedh40@hotmail.com
Telephone: 208-867-7497
Address: 12082 N 19th Ave
15
Garden City, ID 83714
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power Customer
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I have supported Idaho Power as a resident owner for over 30 years. I recently installed a
solar power genera�on system for my home and received credit for excess power genera�on as deemed
appropriate by Idaho Power. The change in the program, reducing the amount of credit issued for extra
power, goes against why I made the $25,000 investment to install power in the first place. I am reducing
the amount of energy consumed by the Idaho Power system by having solar-generated ability in my
home, leaving that excess power available for other Idaho Power customers. Moving away from fossil
fuels and hydro-generated power systems to more sustainable power sources such as solar and wind,
and having individual residences pay for and supply power to their homes independent of Idaho Power
offsets the cost of implemen�ng that solar source for power genera�on for the company. Keeping the
incen�ves in place as a credit allows the customer to recoup some of the installa�on costs and provides
everyone with solar power for their home, becoming less dependent on Public U�li�es for their power
consump�on needs. At the same �me, Idaho Power is reducing its overall cost and the investment
needed to supply a growing popula�on. If the credits are taken away or diminished, it negates the
incen�ves for people to make a solar investment. Help the people help you in inves�ng in the future by
maintaining the current credit system and allowing the public to fund their power genera�on systems."
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Name: Mel Mohr
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 10:11AM
Email: idaspudone@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-870-5122
Address: POBox 4569
McCall, ID 83638
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Why isn't more loca�ons being used for examina�on and input from the customers of IP for
this case? And why isn't the PUBLIC being represented by you rather than the corp heads of this u�lity?
Unbelievable! "
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16
The following comment was submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Dan Ostermiller
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 11:38AM
Email: ostermillermd@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-634-6442
Address: 300 Crowley Ln
McCall, ID 83638
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Please support homer Solar and keep the current reimbursement plans for home solar.
Or make it more lucra�ve for the home owner. There are a lot of roof space that can be u�lized with no
ecological consequences. This power I produce is used by my neighbors as well. "
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The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Dawn Lea
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 12:04PM
Email: dawn@dawnlea.com
Telephone: 208-890-5416
Address: 1554 North Sunup Way
Eagle, ID 83616-7024
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "ID. I hope that you reject Idaho Power’s request to cheapen solar use/costs to consumers. I
don’t understand why they wouldn’t want us to use more of the abundant and free sun power that
exists in Idaho. It should be easier and not harder to aquire and use solar power, especially in a state as
sunny as Idaho. We got solar to help lessen the burden of power usage, even if it’s only a litle, as our
state popula�on surges. As we grow in popula�on as a state, I feel that alterna�ve power sources, such
as solar, will be a huge benefit to the state. Please help Idaho Power see this future. "
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Name: Perry Lea
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 12:44PM
Email: perry@perrylea.com
Telephone: 208-863-2703
Address: 1554 N. Sunup Way
Eagle, ID 83616-7024
17
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "As a long term (35 year) Idaho resident and homeowner that installed roo�op solar in 2022 I
cannot and will not accept the proposal of reducing export credit rates from 8-10c per kWh to 2.8-4c per
kWh.
There was NO no�ce to this change when I installed solar. This reduc�on in credit is roughly a 72% cut in
favor of the power u�li�es. This helps no one but their botom line. It discourages roo�op solar to help
reduce the burden of electricity, cut our demand of foreign fuels, and reduce greenhouse emissions
plaguing our children’s future environment.
This proposal is nothing short of egregious. Addi�onally scheduling this hearing midweek and midday
with litle no�ce is heinous and raises the op�cs that this is an underhanded and biased ac�vity - further
reducing our trust in u�li�es and our government.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Tailor Sponcey
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 1:00PM
Email: tsponcey@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-280-0061
Address: 2095 E 3950 N
Filer, ID 83328
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I Tailor Sponcey am advoca�ng for the PUC to help stop Idaho Power from decreasing the
solar credit earning poten�al on the basis of the points listed below, as well as help to beter incen�vize
more u�lity customers the poten�al op�on to opt for solar power.
· Idaho Power has a 100% clean energy goal - keep the public interested and contribu�ng to that goal
with fair programs, including sufficient solar credit earning poten�al. Distributed energy system owners
should be fairly compensated for the services they provide and programs should enable a local energy
economy.
· Customers of all types deserve programs that help make the right choice for their family’s energy use,
ensuring pathways to universal access for all Idaho & Oregon residents to par�cipate in energy
produc�on
· Local clean energy systems provide grid security and reliability while protec�ng our climate and public
lands from catastrophic events like wildfires
18
· Solar programs provide countless, high profile jobs for diverse groups of people. From administra�ve
and electrical, inspectors, and u�lity employees alike. Please don't downsize jobs in Idaho and Oregon by
decreasing the public interest in the growing solar industry by reducing their incen�ve for clean energy.
Thank you"
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Name: James Ulmen
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 1:59PM
Email: tlemun@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-230-1809
Address: 586 S Sawtooth Ave
Boise, ID 83709
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I am wri�ng to voice my opposi�on to Idaho Power's proposal. It is unfair to customers for
Idaho Power to change the rules in this way. Idaho Power should be suppor�ng more solar, not punishing
those who use it!
I ask the Idaho Public U�li�es Commission to do everything in their power to encourage the adop�on of
solar power throughout the State."
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Jayne Elliot
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 4:27PM
Email: elliotj1485@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-965-3370
Address: 1485 n. Crestmont Dr
Meridian, ID 83642
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I couldn't atend the public mee�ng tonite regarding Solar Power compensa�on. I put in
Solar panels to help Idaho Power to not be so burdened with high volume usage. I expect an even trade
for my usage/produc�on. I have invested $14000.00 to help offset the Power needed for my home from
Idaho Power.
Thank you,
Jayne Elliot "
19
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Name: Carl Breidenbach
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 4:55PM
Email: breidenbachcarl@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-891-1136
Address: 4135 South Minuteman Way
Boise, ID 83706
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "To the Idaho Public U�li�es Commision,
I am an Idaho Power shareholder, and want the best for Idaho Power and its shareholders. However your
job is not to protect me as a shareholder, rather to protect us as customers, and the public. I was upset
to learn today's Public Hearing had no digital par�cipa�on element as most of our world has adopted
over the past few years.
Idaho Power’s requested changes to net metering have some glaring issues that I feel need to be
addressed.
I am very concerned with the real �me net billing concept. I understand the percep�on of inaccurate
reading over long periods. However as I watch my solar and batery system it uses the grid as a buffer of
sorts. It will “needlessly” import or export power in small quan��es to balance its load especially as
appliances turn on or off in the home. This has the poten�al to create essen�ally phantom load that may
incur significant charges due to the differen�al in export value vs import cost. Whereas this drop in the
bucket will have almost no impact on the grid. I would encourage hourly or even 10 minute periods of
net metering to capture what a customer is consuming or providing without collec�ng the noise.
Legacy Status: Idaho Power clearly believes they have provided ample warning to new customers since
the last grandfather clause was enacted. I however believe a new grandfather date needs to be made as
of the decision date. While Idaho Power expects a fair deal and contracts they can count on it is equally
unfair to expect people to make investments with no guarantee of the future. When I installed my
system I had the understanding that things could change, but with no proposal at the �me, there was no
way to make a future cost benefit analysis. As just one example it appears that under this structure West
facing panels would be more advantageous than my south panels. However I was not given an
opportunity to even consider an alternate layout because the informa�on was not available.
I have a huge issue with the applica�on of TOU rate or on peak vs off peak billing rates. As a proponent
of a stable electrical grid and a fair shake for the U�lity I completely support varied �me of use rates.
However crea�ng �me of use/genera�on rates for only one group of customers seems to be unduly
targe�ng that specific group. If Idaho power wants to make power fees fair between onsite generators
and non generators they should both be subject to the same �me of use plan.
20
Finally I want to lament the backwards nature of this proposal and as the Public U�li�es Commision to
think how they should be helping. The net effect of this proposal is a drama�c undervalua�on of solar
power. In the compe�ng assessment of the value of our power commissioned by several community
groups the point that stuck out to me is that most of our exports are not traveling long distances. It's
going next door, not 100 miles from genera�on to consump�on. I have been involved in energy
efficiency programs for a very long �me. It seems wild and crazy that Idaho Power would offer financial
incen�ves to lower power demand. For example I got $2,000 per HVLS fan for my employer to try to cut
cooling demand. If Idaho Power wants to avoid gas peaker plants they should be cra�ing a rate structure
to support on site solar and distributed bateries. I don’t believe this does that at all.
Thank You,
Carl Breidenbach
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following comments were submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Robert Wen
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 5:26PM
Email: rbwen13@gmail.com
Telephone: 408-431-2307
Address: 3042 Sweetwater Dr
Boise, ID 83716
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "As a homeowner, I think Idaho Power's monopoly and policies are downright predatory
towards it's consumers. Yet we are le� with no choice. The one choice that we had was to turn to solar
power, so we had that right to generate our own electricity.
What Idaho Power is proposing enables them to make money off of solar power consumers. They are
proposing to buy the energy at a lower rate, and sell it for the right price. Above this, they have �ers
during the summer for using too much electricity. These higher summer rates were defined by a limited
amount of power. This directly contradicts their ac�ons in limi�ng the use of solar in their consumers.
Solar power is most efficient in the summer, when this company says that power is most limited. Having
more customers generate power for their neighbors therefore should in theory be beneficial to Idaho
Power, but these policies show conflic�ng statements. The one way these policies align is monetary gain
for Idaho Power. Again, keep in mind that this is a monopoly.
With any monopoly, the monopoly controller has the power in their hands to abuse their consumers.
The whole reason monopolies are frowned upon is because this has been done again and again in
history, countless �mes. The only protec�on against these monopolicies is the government and their
policies.
21
I'm not surprised that Idaho Power has brought these policies to the government. Stock holders look
towards money, and there are no bars for these giant coorpora�ons. I just plead for the sake of the
people of Idaho, for the freedom of choice in this country, and for the hopeful outlook towards a ci�zen-
enabled future that the council reviews these policies with scru�ny.
Thank you for your �me."
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name: Anne Herndon
Submission Time: Oct 24 2023 8:07PM
Email: aherndon9@aim.com
Telephone: 208-377-8767
Address: 6110 Bay Street
Boise, ID 83704
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "I urge you to REJECT Idaho Power's proposal in this case.
Idaho Power's applica�on is far too technical and complicated for the average customer to understand.
The proposal is based on a study that was biased to begin with (the 2022 Value of Distributed Energy
Resources Study) and does absolutely nothing to promote the development of on-site genera�on of
clean renewable solar energy.
It is especially disturbing that Idaho Power is simultaneously seeking a general rate increase in a separate
case (IPC-E-23-11) which would further discourage customers from inves�ng in energy conserva�on.
Idaho Power is a private company that answers first and foremost to its shareholders. It is the
responsibility of the Public U�li�es Commission to protect the ci�zens of Idaho from companies such as
Idaho Power that seek to increase their profits without jus�fica�on.
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The following comment was submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Daniel Bennet
Submission Time: Oct 25 2023 9:36AM
Email: danbennet281@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-608-1363
Address: 289 W Screech Owl Dr
Kuna, ID 83634
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
22
Comment: "I atended the hearing last night in Boise as I did almost a year ago regarding the acceptance
of the VODER study. It is nice to hear from people advoca�ng for themselves and other community
members as the commission has failed to advocate for this community by accep�ng a one-sided study
aimed at diminishing the value of self-generated energy. By not accep�ng a third-party study or any
other input to weigh the true value of on-site genera�on; this board has clearly set a precedent that they
will approve Idaho Power's proposals and there will be no checks and balances as to what Idaho Power
claims to be the value of private solar.
I will remind this board that you have an incredibly rare decision to make within this case. You could
poten�ally establish the monetary value of a commodity in the state of Idaho. As you can tell by the
audience last night, a great deal of the beneficiaries of this compensa�on are re�rees. These folks
installed solar systems, like many others, to save themselves from the impending infla�on and unstable
grid. This reduc�on in compensa�on is dras�c, and to further allow an adjustment each year to
compensa�on will surely give way to decreased compensa�on as Idaho Power is protected from
repor�ng losses. The individuals, the people in this state; those whom you represent, will suffer.
I have a unique role and responsibility in the solar community to provide summaries of what the VODER
study suggests and what the proposals mean for individuals and businesses to a massive audience. I am
also a 5th genera�on Idahoan and like most of the long-tenured Idahoan's I have watched Idaho Power's
growth through any means necessary. This is not a company for the people, this is a for-profit monster
that relies on campaign dona�ons and land acquisi�ons to further their posi�on. And we must believe
that this study, the only study this board will accept is truthful and doesn't need to be corroborated?
Idaho Power is a terrible resource for informa�on; just look at their website. The majority of informa�on
is false and intended to scare off would-be solar clients.
“If you’re considering installing solar panels or other renewable genera�on at your home or business,
Idaho Power is here to help.”
- False - Help by deterring from installing?
“Remember, the warran�es on solar equipment can last 10–20 years.”
- False, most warran�es are 25-30 years and life expectancies are well beyond 40 years “Each kilowat
(kW) of solar requires approximately 100 square feet of unshaded space.”
- False, currently 52sq � for 1kw and Panels are designed to produce energy even in par�ally shaded
areas.
“financing op�ons for Idaho Solar Clients" (click) – link deliberately does not work even a�er reported”
“Decide what is the best use of your money right now by comparing the expected returns from different
investment op�ons, like stocks, bonds, other purchases or simply saving for your future.”
- Not all reasons for going Solar are financial.
"ESTIMATED BREAK-EVEN POINT
(SIMPLE PAYBACK) IF PAYING UP FRONT IN CASH
Current 13–17 years Proposed 19–24 years"
- Incorrect
Current 9-11 years Proposed 13-15 years
Even less with the tremendous amount of tax incen�ves available and the es�mated opera�onal lifespan
is well beyond the 30 years Idaho Power gives credit to.
Solar Providers in Idaho are required to follow Chapter 48 �tle 18 of the legisla�on (Solar Provider
disclosure act) yet Idaho Power can defame anything/anyone they'd like without recourse. Addi�onally,
the messaging from Idaho Power regarding upcoming poten�al changes are never prefaced with such.
The leters to our clients look like things have changed and been accepted and one small paragraph on
23
the back page states "not yet approved." I field hundreds of ques�ons with every leter Idaho Power
sends as they treat every proposal they have as already in mo�on.
Idaho Power execu�ves are openly sta�ng to neighbors and friends that they are doing everything they
can to quell private solar and to not install systems on their own home. This is the source of your
informa�on in the VODER study. This is the privately held monopoly asking you to increase profits at a
significant cost to those you serve.
In the proposal Idaho Power reminds the IPUC of its "core regulatory objec�ve, to leave consumers
indifferent to where their energy comes from." This is different. Private Solar comes from the hard work
of folks like myself and the more than 15,000 other solar providers in Idaho Powers service territories
doing everything they can to support their families and help stabilize a wavering grid with zero op�on for
buying low and selling high.
At minimum you need to seek a third-party study before making changes to our compensa�on. And we
should not allow them to propose changes each year to take away value from individuals.
This proposal needs to be denied.
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The following comment was submited via PUCWeb:
Name: Gary Hall
Submission Time: Oct 25 2023 10:51AM
Email: garyh163@gmail.com
Telephone: 208-866-2720
Address: 6336 W Parapet Ct
Boise, ID 83703-2842
Name of U�lity Company: Idaho Power
Case ID: IPC-E-23-14
Comment: "Hello ,
My comment is that I oppose Idaho Powers proposed residen�al solar power co-genera�on payment
decrease . Having powered an apartment building and business space in Pocatello with my own wind
power back in the mid 70's , when Idaho Power refused to accept co generated power , I have a broad
context . At that �me I had no op�on but to completely disconnect from IP and rely on a 40 kw batery
bank . Thankfully for future alterna�ve energy produc�on , the PUC , under the leadership of Perry
Swisher , ordered IP and other power suppliers to begin accep�ng co generated ( and avoided costs )
power at a reasonable rate . The PUC needs to step up again on behalf of the ratepayers and reject Idaho
Powers request to stuff down future solar power installa�ons .
Sincerely ,
Gary Hall"
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24
From: Stan W. Johns <stan@maxxllc.net>
Sent: Wednesday, October 25, 2023 1:21 PM
To: Jan Noriyuki
Subject: PUC Hearing case number IPC-E-23-14
Dear Idaho Public U�lity Commission:
We urge you to NOT accept Idaho Power’s proposal to change net metering. Their proposal would hurt
exis�ng customers and make it difficult for other Idahoans to go solar in the future.
The proposal is not fair:
1. The proposal cuts solar rates for customers that installed solar in the last three years. These
customers made a purchasing decision based on current policy and the rules should not be changed
midstream for their systems, when they’ve already made the investment. The changes would cause a
longer return on investment and could cause financial harm.
2. The proposal cuts solar rates, even when the u�lity benefits from that solar power. Fairly
compensa�ng solar customers only during peak hours ignores the benefits solar provides to their system
at all other �mes.
3. This proposal makes it harder for solar customers to earn a return on their investment. This means
that fewer people will be able to choose to generate their own energy and go solar in the future. This
proposal takes away choice and energy independence from Idahoans.
4. The u�lity should be encouraging customers to go solar with beter rates at all �mes for the benefit of
all and for a greener Idaho.
We urge you to deny Idaho Power’s proposal and con�nue to allow Idahoans the freedom to generate
their own energy.
Thank you,
Stan Johns
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
October 23,2023
Case Number IPC-E-23-14
Dear Idaho Public Utility Commission:
I you not to accept Idaho Power's proposal to change net metering.Their proposalwouldhurtexistingcustomersandmakeitdifficultforotherIdahoanstogosolarin thefuture.
The proposal is not fair:
1.At no time was I ever told or made aware of any possible changes with the Idaho
Public Utility Commission when I purchased my solar panels.I feel,those of us thatpurchasedsolarpowershouldbegrandfatheredintoourcurrentrates.
2.The proposal cuts solar rates for customers that installed solar in the last three
years.These customers made a purchasing decision based on current policy and therulesshouldnotbechangedmidstreamfortheirsystems,when they'vealready madetheinvestment.The changes would cause a longer return on investment and could
cause financial harm.
3.The proposal cuts solar rates,even when the utility benefits from that solar
power.Fairly compensatingsolar customers only during peak hours ignores thebenefitssolarprovidestotheirsystematallothertimes.
4.This proposal makes it harder for solar customers to earn a return on theirinvestment.This means that fewer people will be able to choose to generate their ownenergyandgosolarinthefuture.This proposal takes away choice and energyindependencefromIdahoans.
I deny Idaho Power's proposal and continue to allow Idahoans the freedom to generate
their own energy.
Thank You,
Nola Cates
154 Ellswort Road
Pocatello,Idaho 83202
208-681-5089
RECEIVED
2023 OCTOBER 25, 2023 9:57AM
IDAHO PUBLIC
UTILITIES COMMISSION
James Kalua
Idaho Power:
October 23,2023
R.E Solar Panels and Net Metering
To Idaho Power and the PUC,
I am a Retired Army Veteran on a fixe income.My wife and I are both on SS,and limited Retirement.We require the
benefits we receive from out Solar Panels that were installed by Solar Dog,Inc.I purchased the solar panels,which I
own free and clear.The ability to pay less than Ten Dollars a month during the peak hours has saved my wife and I
extreme financial debt.
If Idaho Power takes away the benefit of Solar Panels,than my wife and I will no longer be able to pay the high rates
that are being currently charged for Power.And with the high prices of Gasoline,Food and Utilities,we will be unable
to financially pay the cost of electricity as well.
My solar panels are an extreme help and benefit to myself and my family.
Sincerely,
James A.Kalua
For PUC meeting.....J'ec-6-D /V
A few months ago,I started looking at solar and found out what Idaho Power was
proposing.After talking to Idaho Power who seemed to be discouragingprivate
solar,I seriously considered not doing it.
But I investigatedwhy the PUC was formed and its purpose is to protect us from
monopolies controlling things for power and profit.
I decided to go ahead and spend a lot of money to install solar and do my part to
transfer our power needs to renewable.
If you approve this request by Idaho Power,it will discourageothers from
investing in solar projects and therefore slow what seems to be everyone's desire
to encourage.And it will certainly harm those of us who have made that
investment.
Idaho Power should not want to discourageprivate solar production,as our peak
production time is when Idaho Power needs it the most.Our production helps
eliminate the need for rolling blackouts like so many companiesaround the nation
are implementing during those peak hours.
I am askingyou to deny this request for changefrom the net metering now in
place with Idaho Power.
Virgil Stucker
8815 S Ten Mile Rd
Meridian,Id 83642
Cell:208-794-0999
Email:virgilstucker@msn.com
Introduce myself as Jared Scofield,head of a family of 5 in Meridian,in the Bear CreekSubdivision,a homeowner with solar generation.
As a concerned homeowner in Ada County,I have 3 points of contention with the proposedIdahoPowerchangestotariffsandbillingforaveragesolarhomeownerslikeme.
I'd like to issue my 3 points and then briefly breakdown my concerns and possiblesolutions
that I believe would abate the concerns of most average solar homeowners.
1.Our systems were designed to function under the monthly billing protocol.
2.The price per kWh is being shifted from a 1 to 1 pricing structure to a .5 to 1 pricing
structure which devalues the solar homeowner's generationversus Idaho Power's provision.
3.The average homeowner feels entirely powerless in the face of proposed changes to theirsystemandbilling.
When I installed solar on my home in 2020,my system was designed by a company thatoperatedundertheassumptionsthatthebillingofsolarwasonamonthlynetbasis,therefore,my system was designed to generate overage during certain times of the year,and that
overage would help offset the usage from other times of the year such as Summer A/C
season.This would allow my system to benefit me as a customer by reducing my kWh bill by
approximately 90%on an annual basis.Mind you,I still pay monthlyfees associated withconnection,service,and regulation by Idaho Power.tJnder Idaho Power's proposal,there will
no longer be any bankingof kWh for future offsetting,therefore all the kWh that my systemproducesintheoffseasonwillnolongerbenefitmebyoffsettingmyusageinthepeak
season.Instead they would propose to shift to a real time consumption payment method.Therefore,my 2nd point becomes relevant.Idaho Power would shift the balance in their favorfromtheprevious1to1tradeoffofkWhgeneratedversusconsumed,to a .5 to 1 pricing
structure of kWh generated versus consumed.Idaho Power proposes to pay me 4.91 centsperkWhthatIgenerateonmysystemonmyhomewhichIownandthenproposestocharge
me a minimum of 9.8633 cents per kWh for the first 300 kWh used and then up to 11.7472
cents per kWh for all additional consumption.This .5 to 1 ratio now penalizesthe solar
homeowner grievously by devaluingtheir generation by approximately50%and allows Idaho
Power to essentially change the rules that our solar systems were designedto function underthusrenderingthemcrippledintheireffectivenesstoperformtheirintendedfunction,to offsetthepowerbillbygeneratingourownpower.Now,someone might say,"But look,they'repayingupto20.4221 cents per kWh generated on peak during the Summer,surely that 4 to 1ratiooutweighsthe.5 to 1 ratio,right?"Wrong,because Idaho Power has stacked the deck intheirfavorhereaswellbylimitingthe4to1benefittothehoursof3PMto11PM,MondaythroughSaturday,except holidays,from June 15th to September 15th.To be clear,solargenerationfallsoffdramaticallybetween3PMand11PM,they will effectively never have topaythe4to1ratiobecauselittletonopowerisgeneratedduringthattime.Furthermore,the
3 month limitation AND exception of Sundays tips the balance further in Idaho Power's favor.This is the same type of structuringof the rules that casinos use so that "The House always
wins".By devaluing the solar homeowner's production,many would be made to feel like
they've been sold a bill of goods or have wasted their money on their home solar systems.
Which brings me to my 3rd point,that the average homeowner feels powerlessin the face of
these proposedchanges.Idaho Power has invested heavily to prepare its 343 page proposal
with the intention to exact a price from its customers,specificallytargeting the solar
community.And what voice do we have?What vote do we have?Only these limited
hearings?When the viability of our own propertyweighs in the balance,and Idaho Power
holds all the cards,the average homeowner feels trapped and helpless.
So,here are my proposals to abate all these concerns.
1.Grandfatherevery current system in operation and all those in the process of installation,
to be billed under the monthly net meteringstructure which they were designedto operate
under.Give a deadline such as December 31st 2024 for all new solar generation systems to
comply with new real time metering and billing standards.This will allow companies time toredesignthesystemstheywilloffertoaccountforthe.5 to 1 billing structure and allow them
to sell systems to homeowners that will still have the intended results of eliminatingtheir
power bill by generatingthe correct amount of kWh to offset that bill.This 1 proposal would
eliminate the concerns of my first 2 pointsfor existing solar homeowners as well as give the
freedom to Idaho Power to propose changes they wish to see in the future,but that would not
catch anyone off guard,like the homeowners and solar companies.
2.If no grandfatheringwill be allowed for solar homeownerslike me,then I would ask for
provision to reduce the .5 to 1 ratio back to a 1 to 1 ratio,or to eliminate the many exceptions
to the pricing structure for home generated kWh.That might look like paying the peak rate for
all hours of the day rather than just 3PM to 11PM.That might look like includingSundays.
That might look like expanding the Summer months from June 15 to May 15 and from
September 15 to October 15th.Or it might look like just paying the same rate for kWh as they
charge to customers and at the same rate schedules.These various changes would add
value back to the solar homeowner and allow them to feel relief from the .5 to 1 ratio.
3.Finally,I would propose a voting forum for solar homeowners where they could be
representedformally,even if by proxy through mail in ballot where they might be informed and
then respond accordinglyto issues that directly involve their property.
I believe that Idaho Power acts in the best interest of Idaho Power first,and we the solar
homeowners will act in our best interest first.But together,if we opened dialogue and
fostered relationshipfor mutual benefit,I believe that we could come to a resolution that
would benefit both sides of the discussion without targeting or harming 1 subset of customers
unnecessarily.
I want to thank Idaho Power for their service to the citizens by proactivelydeveloping
infrastructure and programs that would benefit all of us.I want to thank the Idaho Public
Utilities Commission for hearing me today and for weighing these matters fairly and rightly.
Thank you.
Idaho Power Company
I.P.U.C.No.29,Tariff No.101 Oriqinal Sheet No.8-7
SCHEDULE 8SMALLGENERALSERVICE
ON-SITE GENERATION
(Continued)
SUMMERAND NON-SUMMERSEASONS
For Monthly Charges,the summer season begins on June 1 of ecch year and ends on August 31ofeachyear.For Monthly Charges,the non-summer season begins on September 1 of each year andendsonMay31ofeachyear.
For the Export Credit Rate,the summer season begins on June 15 of each year and ends onSeptember15ofeachyear.For the Export Credit Rate,the non-summer season begins on September 16ofeachyearandendsonJune14ofeachyear.
TIME PERIODS
The time periods for the Export Credit Rate are defined as follows.AII times are stated in MountainTime.
Summer Season
On-Peak:3:00 p.m.to 11:00 p.m.Mondaythrough Saturday,except holidaysOff-Peak:11:00 p.m.to 3:00 p.m.Mondaythrough Saturday and all hours on Sundayandholidays
Non-summer Season
Off-Peak:AII hours Mondaythrough Sunday
Holidays are New Year's Day (January 1),Memorial Day (last Monday in May),IndependenceDay(July 4),Labor Day (first Monday in September),Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November),and Christmas Day (December 25).If New Year's Day,IndependenceDay,or Christmas Day falls onSunday,the following Monday will be designated a holiday.
MONTHLYCHARGE
The Monthly Charge is the sum of the following charges,and may also include charges as set forthinSchedule54(Fixed Cost Adjustment),Schedule 55 (Power Cost Adjustment),Schedule 91 (EnergyEfficiencyRider),Schedule 95 (Adjustment for Municipal Franchise Fees),Schedule 96 (Blaine CountySurchargetoFundtheUndergroundingofCertainFacilities),and Schedule 98 (Residential and Small FarmEnergyCredit).
The following charges are subject to change upon Commission approval:
Summer Non-summer
Service Charge,per month $5.00 $5.00
Energy Charge,per kWh
First 300 kWh 9.8633¢9.8633¢AII AdditionalkWh 11.7472¢10.3486¢
IDAHO Issued by IDAHO POWER COMPANYissuedperOrderNo.Timothy E.Tatum,Vice President,Regulatory AffairsEffective--1221 West Idaho Street,Boise,Idaho
Idaho Power Company
l.P.U.C.No.29,Tariff No.101 Oriqinal Sheet No.8-8
SCHEDULE 8SMALLGENERALSERVICE
ON-SITE GENERATION
(Continued)
EXPORT CREDIT RATE
The following rate structure and credits are subject to change upon Commission approval:
Summer Non-summerExportCreditRate,per kWh
On-Peak 20.4221¢n/aOff-Peak 4.9100¢4.9100¢
PAYMENT
The monthly bill rendered for service supplied hereunder is payable upon receipt,and becomespastdue15daysfromthedateonwhichrendered.
IDAHO Issued by IDAHO POWER COMPANYissuedperOrderNo.Timothy E.Tatum,Vice President,Regulatory AffairsEffective--1221 West Idaho Street,Boise,Idaho
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