BOISE, Idaho — Nearly 14,000 Idaho Power customers with rooftop solar panels will receive about 30% less compensation for excess energy they send back to the electrical grid, following a decision by the Idaho Public Utilities Commission.
The rate reduction, which took effect Wednesday, Oct. 1, comes after Idaho Power proposed a 60% cut to its export credit rate in April. The commission approved only half that amount after reviewing studies and public testimony.
The export credit rate compensates solar customers for the electricity their panels generate beyond what they use in their homes. That excess energy flows onto the grid for use by neighboring customers.
"If they're not using the energy in their house, they're going to be exporting it onto the grid, sharing it with their neighbors