Idaho Power faces pushback over proposed solar energy compensation rate slash

Idaho Power's proposal to dramatically reduce the rates paid to homeowners for excess solar energy drew strong opposition at a public hearing Tuesday, with more than 70 customers turning out to protest the plan.

Currently, Idaho Power pays homeowners an average of five to 17 cents per kilowatt hour for their solar energy, depending on the season. Idaho Power is proposing to pay homeowners one to two cents per kilowatt hour, depending on the season.

"Idaho Power is proposing this 80% decrease in the rates from last year," said Lisa Young, the director for the Idaho chapter of the Sierra Club.

Currently, around 13,800 homeowners across Idaho have rooftop solar installations.

“Solar is really important and really valuable for us Idahoans,” said Amanda Reed, an attendee at the meeting.

These customers pay solar companies between 8 and 12 cents per kilowatt hour for the energy they produce, while excess energy is sold back to Idaho Power.

"It's going to make it a lot harder for solar owners to recoup their investment," said Vienne Aberle, an attendee at the meeting.

Idaho Power said in a statement to KTVB that they had lower energy market prices in 2024 and a desire to pay "fair market prices" for the energy they receive.

Around 50 people spoke at the public hearing, saying the plan was “unfair” and “biased” and that they “strongly oppose Idaho Power to decrease their rates while advocating for solar panel use.”

There was no vote Tuesday night, but Idaho Power said the commissioners will vote relatively soon, with no date set yet.