Idaho utility regulator OKs disputed solar deal

BOISE (AP) - Idaho's public utility regulators approved a 25-year electricity sales pact between a solar energy developer and Idaho Power Co., despite staff objections it's too expensive for customers.

Idaho Public Utilities Commission staff recommended rejecting the deal between Interconnect Solar and Idaho's biggest utility, suggesting the electricity price should be based on new standards for solar power that are subject to ongoing regulatory discussions.

But all three commissioners concluded the Idaho Power-Interconnect agreement was appropriate because the price is based on past practices and regulators' directives and shouldn't be held to some standard that remains undecided.

Idaho Power will pay Interconnect $97.47 per megawatt hour for electricity from its 20-megawatt project near Murphy in Owyhee County.

It's among Idaho's first big solar installations and is due to be operational next July.