Idaho Power implements rate increase to address growth and infrastructure costs [Video]

BOISE, Idaho — Idaho Power implemented new increased power rates for all customers starting January 1st. Residential customers will see an average increase of $3.50 per month to their power bill.

“We are in kind of a unique situation as a utility and as a region, where we’re just seeing this really strong growth,” says Jordan Rodriguez, a Spokesperson for Idaho Power. Idaho Power requested a rate increase for all customers to help cover the costs associated with growth and infrastructure improvements.

“So the original request was for about $99 million, which comes out to about 7.3% average for all Idaho customers. That was what was in the original request. What the PUC approved is about $50 million, which comes out to about 3.7%,” says Rodriguez.

It’s too soon to say where new infrastructure is needed, but maintenance upgrades are planned.

“For at least the next four years we’re planning …