Customers Speak Out Against Idaho Power Bill Increase
Posted on March 21, 2024 by Abbey Parnall
Tags, Energy, General Interest
The Public Utility Commission will be accepting public comments on the Idaho Power Rate Case through April 14, 2024. If you would like to add your comments, you can do so using CUB’s Action Form or by emailing .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) with the subject line “Public Comments on UE 426”.
On Wednesday, March 14, the Public Utility Commission held a public hearing on Idaho Power’s general rate case. The electric utility is asking for a 27% increase for residential customers.
While this is not a complete list, the utility is asking for $10.7 million from Eastern Oregon households for the following areas:
- Wildfire management (tree trimming, vegetation removal)
- Growing its system (more customers, more energy needed)
- General inflation (more expensive materials)
- Shareholder profits
Idaho Power is also asking to increase profit margins to benefit its shareholders. Community members, including some CUB partners, spoke up against increasing bills.
Concerns of Higher Bills for Struggling Families
Throughout the public comment hearing, Oregonians expressed concerns about rising utility bills during a period of historic inflation.
Balbina Torres of Community in Action commented stating concern for her clients who were already on a fixed income and having difficulty paying their bills. “I work with Community in Action with the energy assistance department, I have noticed many households with a fixed income–most of them have a high past due balance or they’re just barely making it. I feel with this increase, it would put them in a larger financial hardship.”
One customer, Julie, asked for a breakdown of spending. “It doesn’t give a clear breakdown–with an increase like 20% over, the public should be able to see that. I don’t even qualify for the [lowest amount]. If this was passed, would the income guideline be revised to factor in the increase in utilities?”
CUB Will Continue to Fight Idaho Power’s Request
The Public Utility Commission will decide on this rate case by October 1, 2024. Any increase in rates will take effect for Idaho Power customers on October 15.
CUB’s policy team will continue to advocate for Oregon households, fighting unfair rate increases. To read more about the details of this rate case, visit this recent post on the CUB Blog.
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08/22/24 | 0 Comments | Customers Speak Out Against Idaho Power Bill Increase