Idaho Power has filed a general rate case with the Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) requesting an overall rate increase of $10.7 million, or 19.28%. The OPUC will evaluate this request over the next several months, and any resulting changes will not take effect until at least October 2024.
What is a general rate case?
A general rate case is a proceeding used by the OPUC to review the costs of operating and maintaining the utility system and how those costs should be allocated among customers.
Idaho Power is sensitive to the challenges faced by our customers in these difficult economic times and does not take lightly any request to increase rates. Programs are available to help qualifying residential customers in need of financial assistance. Visit idahopower.com/oregon-assistance or call 1-800-388-6040 for more information.
Why did Idaho Power file a general rate case?
Idaho Power’s last general rate case was filed in 2011. Since then, we’ve made significant investments in the grid to serve our customers’ growing energy needs safely and reliably. Other factors, such as rising operations and maintenance costs, also play a role. The incremental grid investments (referred to as rate base) necessary to reliably serve our Oregon customers have grown by approximately 60% over what is reflected in current rates. Establishing new general rates will help ensure Idaho Power collects the level of revenue from customers necessary to cover our costs and allow for a reasonable return as we continue to provide safe, reliable electric service.
What are the proposed customer impacts?
If Idaho Power’s request is approved as filed, an average Oregon residential customer will experience a monthly bill increase of about $31.77. Proposed impacts for all Oregon customer classes are shown in the table. Actual percentages will depend on a customer’s classification, their usage, and the rate they pay.
| General Rate Case Request Percentage Change from Current Base Rates |
||||
| Residential | Small General Service | Large General Service1 | Large Power | Irrigation |
| 26.76% | 18.94% | 14.66% | 7.81% | 35.67% |
1 Includes lighting schedules
What has Idaho Power done to keep costs down?
We know rate increases can be hard on customers and have worked diligently to keep expenses down without compromising the service you depend on. Since our last rate case in 2011, Idaho Power’s operating expenses have increased by just 1% annually, while our customer base has grown by 23%.
What is the proposed new bill discount program?
As part of this general rate case, Idaho Power is proposing a new Bill Discount for Qualified Customers Program which, if approved, will consider customers’ household incomes and estimated energy burdens. Qualifying Oregon residential customers could receive a discount of up to 60% towards applicable charges.
How can I learn more?
Copies of the filing are available on Idaho Power’s website, or on the OPUC website, oregon.gov/puc. Documents are also available at Idaho Power offices (please call 208-388-2460 to make arrangements) or OPUC offices (please call 503-378-6600 to set up an appointment). Written comments can also be submitted to: Oregon Public Utility Commission, 201 High St. SE, Suite 100, Salem, OR 97301-3398.
If you have additional questions, call us at 1-800-388-6040.