Idaho Power to Hold Rate Hearings

By The Idaho Statesman, Boise

Apr. 8–Public hearings regarding a proposed settlement between Idaho Power and all the intervening parties in the company’s rate case will be held Thursday in Boise and later in the month in Pocatello and Twin Falls.

The settlement parties have proposed a 3.2 percent increase for Idaho Power. Last October, Idaho Power requested a 7.8 percent increase to collect $44 million in additional annual revenue. The proposed settlement allows an $18 million increase in the company’s annual revenue requirement and a rate of return of 8.1 percent.

The average residential bill would increase by about $2.25 per month if the settlement were approved. However, Idaho Power has said a greater supply of water to drive its Hells Canyon hydroelectric dams could lower electricity costs and result in a net reduction in customer bills.

The hearing schedule is as follows:

— Boise, April 11, 7 p.m. at the Public Utilities Commission hearing room, 472 W. Washington St.

— Pocatello, April 24, 7 p.m., at City Hall, 911 N. 7th St.

— Twin Falls, April 25, 7 p.m., City Hall, 305 Third Ave. East.

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Copyright (c) 2006, The Idaho Statesman, Boise

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