Idaho Public Utilities Commission approves Boise community solar project

Idaho Power’s application for the construction of a 500 kW community solar project was approved by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission.

The $1.16 million project in southeastern Boise, Idaho will offer subscriptions to more than 1,500 residential and non-residential customers for the duration of the project’s anticipated 25-year lifespan.

Prior to receiving the commission’s approval, Idaho Power and its parties negotiated on the terms of the subscription, reducing the one-time $740 payment initially proposed to a $562 fee that may be paid in installments over 24 months.

“The record demonstrates that there is great interest and enthusiasm” for the program, the commission said. “We appreciate the intervening parties’ willingness to engage in settlement negotiations to address the various concerns raised … In this way, the public interest is best served,” the commission said. It also thanked citizens who provided input. “Our service to the public in hearing and deciding these matters is better informed when it includes input from the public itself.”

Of the entire 500 kW project, 70 percent will be allocated to residential customers, with the remaining 30 percent designated for commercial customers, with subscriptions being granted on a first-come, first-served basis. The project is slated for completion by June.