For Idaho Power, the Smart Grid represents energy innovation. It’s about arming customers with the information they need to be wise energy consumers. It’s using new technology to retrieve data and take actions that benefit electrical grid performance. And, it is the combination of improvements that enhance customer service, power reliability, availability of renewable resources, as well as opportunities for time, energy and cost savings.

Smart Grid Benefits

• Enable customers to make more informed energy use decisions
• Reduce the time and impact of outages
• Limit effects of power line disturbances to strengthen the grid
• Support integration of renewable energy into our resource portfolio

Federal Funding Opportunity

In 2009, the U.S. Department of Energy solicited applications for Smart Grid stimulus funding. Idaho Power responded and proposed to complete 12 projects within three years. In March 2010 company representatives signed a contract for a $47 million federal grant, which matched Idaho Power’s $47 million investment in smart meters. All projects must be completed by the revised deadline of July 1, 2013.