Boise Ada

A General Electric subsidiary has purchased a majority stake in an 11-project wind farm complex in southern Idaho, finally clearing the way for development of the 122-turbine project. Meanwhile, Idaho Power has asked the PUC to approve a contract to buy power from a 10MW solar farm, and the utility has received the PUC green light to buy power from three Magic Valley digester generators. The PUC also approved Rocky Mountain Power’s request in part to raise the rate it charges to fund conservation programs.

 I: General Electric Takes Majority Interest 11 Idaho Wind Projects

Construction of 11 southern Idaho wind projects that were approved by the Public Utilities Commission about five years ago is expected to finally begin now that energy giant General Electric has purchased a majority stake in the concern.

The $500 million complex, a group of 11 wind farms, were developed by Montana-based Exergy Development Group, which in 2005 reached 20-year agreements with Idaho Power to sell the energy. Most of the projects are located in the Bell Rapids area above the Snake River near Hagerman; some are to the east near Burley in Cassia County.

GE Energy Financial Services last week announced it had purchased a majority of what is now Idaho Wind Partners.

“Through our investment in Idaho’s largest wind power portfolio, GE Energy Financial Services is putting millions of dollars to work to bring jobs and clean energy to Idaho and help the country meet growing demand for domestic, renewable sources of energy,” Kevin Walsh, managing director and head of Power and Renewable Energy for the company, said in a news release.

Combined, the 11 projects will feature 122 of GE’s 1.5-megawatt (MW) turbines and have a capacity to generate 183MW, which depending on the time of year can provide enough power for 39,700 average Idaho homes.

GE Energy Financial Services said construction has begun on some of the sites by Fagen, Inc., of Granite Falls, Minn. The wind farms are expected to be completed by about year’s end.

II: Idaho Power Seeks Approval of Elmore County Solar Project

Idaho Power is asking the Public Utilities Commission to approve a 20-year contract with Grand View Solar PV One to purchase the output from Idaho’s first utility-scale solar power project.

According to documents filed with the PUC, Grand View is building a solar photovoltaic generation facility on about 180 acres located 16 miles west of Mountain Home. The solar farm’s “nameplate” or rated capacity is 20MW, but documents indicate the facility will provide 10 average megawatts on a monthly basis. Idaho Power will take any additional electricity, but at no charge. Grand View expects to complete the project by the end of next January.

The PUC will now consider how to process Idaho Power’s application, and will then issue a notice for public comment. To review the documents in this case, go to www.puc.idaho.gov and then “File Room” and then “Electric Cases” and then scroll to IPC-E-10-19.

III: Rocky Mountain Power Gets OK to Boost Conservation Program Funding

Rocky Mountain Power has received the Public Utilities Commission’s blessing to raise its “Customer Efficiency Services Rate” from 3.72 percent of customer bills to 4.72 percent.

The rate, sometimes called an “energy efficiency tariff rider” is a portion of a customer’s bill that funds a variety of energy-saving measures. Rocky Mountain Power, which serves portions of eastern Idaho, had asked for an increase to 5.85 percent. Commissioners granted 4.72 percent while the PUC examines additional issues.

Rocky Mountain Power’s charge funds such things as an irrigation load control program; homeowner incentives to purchase energy efficient appliances, insulation, windows and lighting; and a low-income weatherization program. The utility said it invests about $5.2 million a year in seven conservation programs, but estimates those programs generated $17.1 million in customer benefits last year. The PUC-approved rate increase will boost the energy efficiency investments to about $6.7 million.

Idaho Power customers pay a 4.75 percent efficiency rider, which was approved by the PUC last year. To review the PUC order and other documents in the case, visit www.puc.idaho.gov and then “File Room” and then “Electric Cases” and scroll to PAC-E-10-03.

IV: PUC Approves Idaho Power Digester Contracts

Idaho Power has received Public Utilities Commission approval of contracts with three anaerobic digester generation projects in southern Idaho.

All of the 15-year agreements are with Middleton-based New Energy One. They include the 4-megawatt Rock Creek Dairy project near Filer, the 2MW Swager Farms project near Buhl, and the 2MW Double B Dairy project near Murtaugh. The three plants process organic wastes such as livestock waste into a gas, which is then converted into electricity.

To review the PUC’s order or other documents relating to these projects and the Idaho Power contracts, visit www.puc.idaho.gov and click “File Room” and “Electric Cases” and scroll to IPC-E-10-16, -17, and -18.

On The Agenda:

► The Public Utilities Commission holds its next decision meetings on July 12 and 26. Agendas are normally posted the day before on the Commission’s website at www.puc.state.id.us. The meetings typically start at 1:30 p.m.

► Idaho Power has scheduled a series of Community Advisory Process open houses to present information about its proposed Boardman to Hemingway transmission line from southwest Idaho northwest to Boardman on the Columbia River. The meetings are from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. July 13 at Brogan Community Event Center, 5621 Clark St. in Brogan, OR; July 14 at Blue Mountain Conference Center, 404 12 St. in LaGrande, OR; July 15 at the American Legion Hall, 126 N. Bruneau Highway in Marsing, ID; July 20 at the Baker Community Event Center, 2600 East St. in Baker City, OR; July 21 at Pilot Rock Community Center, 285 NW Cedar Place in Pilot Rock, OR; and July 22 at Port of Morrow Convention Center, 2 Marine Drive in Boardman.

To learn more about the Boardman to Hemingway project, visit: www.boardmantohemingway.com

Guest Opinion from Representatives Donna Pence & Wendy Jaquet

Our constituents have expressed disappointment in the failure of animal cruelty legislation to pass in the 2010 legislative session.  Senate Bill 1317, which passed the Senate 34 to 1, was a consensus bill which had many reviewing and changing the content.  Led by Senate Agriculture Committee Chair Tim Corder, R, Mountain Home, groups such as Food Producers (an umbrella group), the dairy, pork and poultry groups, the Department of Agriculture, the Idaho Kennel Club, the Idaho Humane Society and the Humane Society of the United States, a broad group of Idaho citizens looked at the drafts and made changes.

The bill clarified the following:

If standards were to be guidelines, they had to be standards developed by national animal associations

Required a list of animal shelters who would provide medical attention for neglected animals

Doubled fines with revenues split between the courts, the Department of Agriculture and local governments to compensate entities directly involved in situations

Removed the Department of Agriculture from the enforcement of animal cruelty with regard to companion animals (which were defined ) but enforcement remained for production animals

Allowed for fines for the reporting of false information

Clarified and added emphasis to the misdemeanor penalty for the abandonment of horses

Clarified that all animal organized fighting events are felonies, not just dog fighting events.

So, what happened to this bill?  The House Speaker chose to send the bill to the House State Affairs Committee rather than to Representative Tom Trail, Chair of the House Agriculture Committee.  The Chair of the State Affairs Committee, Representative Tom Loertscher, R, Iona, had some concerns about negligence including the failure to provide “medical care”.  A remedy for this concern could have been a meeting during the legislative session of the above stakeholders and anyone else interested, to define “medical care”.  Lastly, personalities had entered the fray.  There is some concern that House leadership does not trust the chair of the Senate Agriculture Committee and see him as a threat to Idaho agriculture.  Although Senator Corder owns and manages a trucking company, he is a farmer and has been in agriculture his entire lifetime.

We are hopeful that this bill or a similar one will return to the legislature in January, 2011.  It is important that we, as elected officials, support efforts to reach consensus among groups and citizens with different perspectives to protect animals from animal cruelty.

A second bill, Senate Bill 1411, the Poultry and Swine Act, known as the “ham and eggs” legislation passed the Senate 24 – 11 and sat in the House Ways and Means Committee until the session ended.  You may know that Californians passed tough animal cruelty laws requiring a certain amount of space for farm animals.  This has motivated poultry producers to relocate in states like Idaho.  This is similar to the dairy industry moving from California to Idaho to escape strict environmental laws.

While there are some concerns about this bill moving oversight of these operations from the Department of Environmental Quality to the Department of Agriculture, we need to do something to ensure that appropriate regulations are in place.  Because this bill was sent to Ways and Means to be killed, we have little protections from these large poultry operations.  This is unacceptable.

Representative Donna Pence, 208/308-0046

Representative Wendy Jaquet, 208/720-0068

It has been an honor to serve District 25 in my husband's stead during the 2010 Legislative Session. This was a challenging year to serve in the Senate as budgetary considerations led to many difficult decisions. In addition to budget reductions, many non-appropriation pieces of legislation have passed through the Statehouse and will take affect later this year. Many bills, memorials and resolutions were passed in the final days of the session each of which can impact citizens in our state to some degree or another. However, I want to highlight the actions taken this session that will affect every Idahoan, particularly those laws pertaining to voting.

House Bill 496 and Senate Bill 1408 will change how Idaho's polling places will operate. Introduced by the House Majority Leader, HB 496, the "Voter ID Bill," mandates that all voters present some form of government-issued photo identification at the polls. While this is an attempt to prevent voter fraud, voter suppression may be an unintended consequence. This will be in effect for the general election this November. Many voters will arrive at the polls without their IDs and complications are inevitable. For those of you without a form of government-issued identification, you are able to sign an affidavit attesting to your identity at the polls.

SB 1408 has changed the deadline for in-person absentee voting. Currently, individuals may vote in certain precincts which allow in-person absentee voting up until the Monday before elections. This law has changed the cut-off to the Friday before the election. County clerks will be able to update poll books more effectively with the additional time. However, those who vote on the Monday or Saturday before elections will no longer be able to do so. If you vote early, or know someone who does, please be aware of this new change. As both of these new laws will take effect July 1, the primary elections on May 25 will not be affected.

On the ballot in November will be four proposed Constitutional amendments resulting from a 2006 Idaho Supreme Court decision that limited financing options for municipal governments and political subdivisions. The first amendment would permit the Board of Regents of the University of Idaho to impose rates of tuition and fees on all of its enrolled students. The other three amendments would enable public hospitals, airport authorities and municipal power providers to assume long-term debt provided it doesn't need to be paid off with tax revenue. Please keep these possible changes in mind at the polls on November 2.

My sincerest thanks to all of you for your prayers, good wishes, and encouragement during this past session. I am running for the Senate and welcome your input.

Sincerely,

Senator Michelle Stennett

BOISE – Dynamite Marketing will donate an additional 800 pounds of its Super Premium natural dog food — in addition to this month’s earlier donation of 2,000 pounds — to the Idaho Humane Society.  

The donation is the result of Dynamite’s pledge to donate a pound of dog food for every Facebook fan who had signed up by March 19. Dynamite last week had 2,790 fans, and decided to make the donation an even 2,800 pounds.   This brings the total value of the charitable donation to $4,200. It is enough to feed approximately 200 dogs for almost six months.  

Dynamite credited coverage by Sun Valley Online with helping to increase the number of fans significantly. “The number of fans grew by almost 50 percent in the week after the story appeared,” said Callie Novak, Dynamite vice president.  

The gift is in keeping with Dynamite’s tradition of making charitable donations to motivate sales. Last year, the company offered its top distributors a choice of a personal prize such as a trip to Maui or double the value as a donation to charity. The result was $22,000 in charitable donations.  

“People who buy our products are passionate about their animals and about making the world a better place,” added Novak. “We attract people who are driven by projects that help animals, improve soil, save lives and make the world a better place. We knew that for many of them, giving to a charity actually would be more of a motivation than a personal prize or special offer.”  

“We are extremely grateful for the donation, as well as the visibility that the competition has brought to the humane society,” said Chris Wiersema, development director at the Idaho Humane Society.  

A family-owned business that has specialized in animal nutrition for four generations, Dynamite Marketing makes products for virtually every member of the animal kingdom. It has long developed food and nutritional supplements for prize-winning working dogs and show dogs across the country.  

Dynamite uses only natural ingredients, made in the United States for better quality control. Throughout its history, it has always looked at alternatives to animal by-products, antibiotics, chemical preservatives, fumigants, artificial coloring and other additives that have later caused health problems.  

Dynamite products are available through more than 4,000 individual distributors across the country.   Additional information is available at www.DynamiteMarketing.comor by calling 1-800-697-7434. The company is based in Meridian, Idaho.  

Jo Murray is a public relations consultant to Dynamite Marketing.

By Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter

Update: Embedded below is the Seattle radio interview the head of the Idaho Dept of Commerce did today. The interview starts around 4:15 into the audio. Among other items, he highlights that the state of Washington spends four times more per capita than Idaho.

It's true that a rising tide lifts all boats. But how those boats are handled makes a big difference when the tide is out and the waters get rough.

State governments across the country are dealing with the continuing national recession in different ways. In Idaho, our focus is on stability. Predictable tax and regulatory policies are what our employers need in order to maintain their operations through this rough patch, and it's what employers elsewhere are looking for when they consider expanding or relocating.

Other states, however, have chosen some interesting and in my view counterproductive approaches. Last month, for example, Oregon voters approved their legislature's decision to raise taxes on the wealthy and on many businesses by $727 million. The immediate result was that my phone started ringing - and so did phones over at our Department of Commerce. It seems that word has spread about our Project 60 initiative, and that we are open for business, including theirs!

The businesses that have called are emotional about this subject, and they have every right to be. Rising costs  especially during a recession could put some employers out of business, or at least prompt layoffs. More than 2,000 Oregonians joined a Facebook group to protest the tax increase and commiserate about the repercussions. No less an Oregon business icon than Nike's Phil Knight calls it "Oregon's Assisted Suicide Law II."

Legislators in the state of Washington are talking about even bigger tax increases to tackle a budget deficit that figures to be as big as Idaho's entire State budget. Businesses in both states are like those in Idaho; they are facing the most challenging times in decades, and even incremental cost increases can mean the difference between surviving and closing up.

The problem in Oregon is that folks were convinced that state government was what needed to be shored up rather than the jobs- and revenue-producing private sector for which state government is supposed to work. As a result, they're chasing some of their cash cows to the border. And I welcome those businesses with open arms.

We now are reaching out to hundreds of Oregon businesses, and will do the same with those in Washington if the legislature there follows Oregon's lead. We aren't offering many bells and whistles, but what we can offer is a business-friendly State government, a highly qualified and motivated work force, and communities where people understand that while government cannot be the solution to their problems it can and must be a champion for their own solutions.

Businesses small and large are the backbone of Idaho's economy. They employ our citizens, who in turn can provide for their families. Businesses and individuals also pay reasonable taxes that enable State and local governments to provide such essential services as public schools and public safety. And make no mistake: Any business that doesn't pass along its operating costs to consumers including their tax bills doesn't stay in business for long.

Of course, Oregon businesses can choose to accept their higher tax burden, and many will. After all, I understand that the quality of life over there is pretty good. But they have nothing on Idaho in that regard.

For those Oregon businesses facing a decision about whether to lay off employees or close their doors entirely, I have a proposal: Move to Idaho. The Tax Foundation rates our corporate tax burden at 17th in the nation, compared to Oregon's ranking of 31st. Our individual tax burden is lower, too. Those kinds of numbers can make a real difference to a bottom line.

For Oregonians reading this: Find the best Idaho community for your business by visiting us online at www.gemstateprospector.com. Or call our Department of Commerce toll free at 1-800-842-5858 for details about available land, buildings and incentives.

I'll continue to share information wherever I can about Project 60 and our business-smart state. Find out what so many folks already know Idaho is a great place to live, to work, and to create career-path jobs and opportunities.

Governor C.L. 'Butch' Otter will issue his Project 60 Update monthly, providing information about ongoing job growth and business expansion throughout Idaho.

The Public Utilities Commission wants to hear from Idaho Power customers about the company’s plan to make its conservation cost recovery pilot program permanent.  Idaho Power also wants the PUC to approve a contract to purchase power from an anaerobic digester near Twin Falls. Meanwhile, Rocky Mountain Power is asking the PUC to raise its energy efficiency surcharge to expand its energy-saving programs, and the eastern Idaho utility is also seeking a rate hike to reflect higher fuel costs.  And we have the latest list of energy legislation in the Idaho Legislature.

I: PUC Taking Public Comments on Idaho Power’s ‘Decoupling’ Pilot

The Idaho Public Utilities Commission is taking public comments through March 23 on whether Idaho Power’s conservation program “decoupling” pilot project should be made permanent.

“Decoupling” is a mechanism designed to ensure the utility can recover all its “fixed costs” so it doesn’t lose money it’s entitled to when its conservation programs succeed in reducing energy sales. Each year during the three-year pilot program, Idaho Power comes before the PUC for its “fixed cost adjustment” that results in either a small increase in rates or a decrease. In 2008, for example, the adjustment led to a 1.3 percent increase in rates to residential and commercial customers; while in 2007 it was a .8 percent decrease.

Idaho Power became the first western utility outside of California to implement this mechanism, designed to remove a utility’s disincentive to provide energy efficiency and conservation programs that reduce sales. The credits or surcharges are updated each year, and the PUC has set a cap of 3 percent on any surcharges. The Fixed Cost Adjustment is separate from general rate cases or adjustments to reflect the utility’s power costs due to changing hydropower conditions or coal and gas costs.

According to the PUC, Idaho Power raised its conservation programs investment from $11.5 million to $15.66 million in 2007, bringing an energy savings of 91,145 megawatt hours – a 29 percent increase in energy savings in 2006. The conservation investment in 2008 rose to $21.2 million and resulted in a savings of 104,156 megawatt hours – an increase of 54 percent from 2007.

To review Idaho Power’s application and related documents, go to www.puc.idaho.gov and then “File Room” and then “Electric Cases” and scroll to IPC-E-09-28. Comments can be submitted through March 23 by clicking the “Comments and Questions” icon on the PUC’s home page, or by mailing them to P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0074 or faxing them to (208) 334-3762.

II: Rocky Mountain Power Seeks Increase in Energy Efficiency Charge

Rocky Mountain Power, the PacifiCorp subsidiary that serves portions of eastern Idaho, has asked the Idaho Public Utilities Commission to approve an increase in the charge it levies to fund energy efficiency programs.

In a notice to its 69,000 Idaho customers, Rocky Mountain Power said it is seeking a 2.13 percent increase in its “Customer Efficiency Services surcharge for all customer classes. If granted by the PUC, the higher charge would boost annual revenue collections for the energy-saving measures from $5.2 million to $8.3 million. For a typical residential customer using 827 kilowatt-hours, the bill would increase $1.62 per month. The hike would take effect on May 1, or whenever the PUC grants the request, whichever is later.

The company said the request was driven by increasing participation by its customers in its energy efficiency and conservation programs, which cost less per kilowatt-hour than electricity from a new power plant. Residential energy programs offered to by Rocky Mountain Power range from cash incentives for efficient appliances; improved insulation; efficient windows; low-income weatherization; and refrigerator replacement. There are also a number of business and irrigation programs. For a complete listing, go to www.rockymountainpower.net

To review Rocky Mountain Power’s request, go to www.puc.idaho.gov and then “File Room” and “Electric Cases” and scroll to PAC-E-10-03.

III: PUC Taking Comments on Rocky Mountain Power Fuel Cost Adjustment

The PUC is also taking comments through March 10 on a request by Rocky Mountain Power to boost residential rates by 1.29 percent to reflect higher fuel costs to generate power. Irrigation rates would rise 1.55 percent and commercial rates by 1.34 percent.

Rocky Mountain’s “Energy Cost Adjustment Mechanism,” similar to Idaho Power’s Power Cost Adjustment, was approved by the PUC last fall to allow the utility to recover power supply costs that aren’t included in the company’s base rates. Each April, the PUC will adjust Rocky Mountain Power’s ECAM to reflect higher or lower than expected costs for such things as coal or hydropower generation or the need to purchase additional power on the open market. Rocky Mountain Power relies on natural gas turbines for about one-third of its power, which can change with seasonal water conditions and availability.

To review the utility’s application and related documents, go to www.puc.idaho.gov and then to “File Room” and “Electric Cases” and then to PAC-E-10-01. Comments can be submitted through March 23 by clicking the “Comments and Questions” icon on the PUC’s home page, or by mailing them to P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0074 or faxing them to (208) 334-3762.

IV: Idaho Power Seeks PUC OK of Digester Power from Cargill

Idaho Power has asked the PUC to approve a contract to purchase up to 2.25 megawatts of firm power from Cargill, Inc., which has been producing electricity from its Bettencourt Dry Creek Biofactory near Hansen east of Twin Falls since 2008.

The anaerobic digester power purchase would take place under the federal Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act (PURPA), which Congress passed in the 1970s to encourage new renewable energy development during the energy crisis.

The PUC is taking public comments on the proposed 10-year contract through March 18. To review the company’s application and related documents, go to www.puc.idaho.gov and then “File Room” and “Electric Cases” and scroll down to IPC-E-10-02. See the above item for information on how to submit comments.

On The Agenda:

► The Public Utilities Commission holds its next decision meetings on March 8, 15, 22, and 29. Agendas are normally posted the day before on the Commission’s website at www.puc.state.id.us. The meetings typically start at 1:30 p.m.

►The Idaho Public Utilities Commission will be taking public comments through April 15 on Idaho Power’s Integrated Resource Plan, which is the company’s roadmap on how it plans to meet future energy demands through energy efficiency and new generation and transmission. The plan can be found on Idaho Power’s website at www.idahopower.com/2009IRP or at the PUC’s website at www.puc.state.id.us and then “File Room” and then “Electric Cases” and scrolling to IPC-E-09-33.

► Lunch & LEED: Sustainable Business Practices, a brown bag presented by the University of Idaho Boise, is a monthly meeting designed for business leaders in search of practical solutions that will help businesses make a commitment to sustain ability and improve their bottom line by focusing on people, profit and planet. Meetings will be on the first Thursday of every month. The meetings are at the University of Idaho Boise, 322 E. Front Street in the Legacy Pointe room on the first floor. They take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. RSVP to professionaldev@uidaho.edu or by calling 334-2999. Bring your own lunch; drinks and cookies will be provided.

IN THE LEGISLATURE: Carbon Cap & Trade Opposition Moves Forward; School Energy Bill Approval Likely in Senate

The House has passed a non-binding memorial by Rep. Eric Anderson that puts the Idaho Legislature on record as opposing a federal carbon cap and trade mechanism to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Meanwhile, legislation to allow school districts to use renewable energy generation for heat and cooling was approved today by the full Senate.

Each week, we’ll post thumbnail summaries on where the bills stand. Text of bills can be found by going to the Legislature’s main site at www.legislature.idaho.gov and clicking the “Bill Center” link and then “Legislation By Subject” and scrolling to the categories in which you’re interested in. Such as “Energy,” “Environment” or “Utilities.” You then click the link to the bill for more information. The Energy section currently looks like this:

Here’s a look at the status of pending bills:

Expedite Renewable Energy Projects Permit Review (S1273):

Requires local governments and the state to expedite permits for renewable energy projects and to provide for public meetings on such applications in an accelerated fashion.

Status: Referred to Senate State Affairs on 2/25. No hearing set.

Sponsor(s): Sen. Kate Kelly (332-1351) and the House and Senate Democratic caucuses.

Energy Resources Office, 2010 Supplemental Appropriation (S1302):

This supplemental appropriations bill provides $25 million in additional spending authority from the federal energy stimulus program and another $262,800 to the Office of Energy Resources.

Status: Signed by governor.

Sponsor(s): Ray Houston, Office of Budget and Policy Analysis (334-4739).

Public Utilities Commission 2010 Supplemental Appropriation (H406):

Adds another $232,700 to the Public Utilities Commission 2010 budget from federal energy stimulus funds (Electricity Regulators Assistance Grant) to “increase capacity to manage significant increases in dockets and other regulatory actions resulting from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (AARA) electricity –related topical areas. Topical areas include energy efficiency, renewable energy, energy storage and transmission, and smart grid technologies.”

Status: Signed by governor.

Sponsor(s): Keith Bybee, Office of Budget and Policy Analysis (334-4739).

Resolution Opposing Carbon Cap & Trade (HJM11):

Non-binding memorial sends message from the Idaho Legislature to Congress expressing opposition to a federal carbon “cap and trade” mechanism to reduce climate-changing greenhouse gas emissions. Memorial says cap & trade would pose a financial hardship on Idaho farmers and families.

Status: Approved by House; pending in Senate Resources and Environment.

Sponsor(s): Reps Eric Anderson and George Eskridge.

Renewable Energy Systems in Schools (S1354):

Allows schools to build and operate certain thermal energy systems to produce hot and chilled water and allows schools to sell excess thermal energy to a willing buyer and use those revenues for a school district’s general operating expenses.

Status: Approved by the Senate and sent to the House.

Sponsor(s): Sen. Monty Pearce and Rep. Lawerence Denney.

Municipal Utilities (HJR007):

Would amend Idaho’s Constitution to allow municipalities that own their own power systems (there are about 10 in the state) to issue revenue bonds requiring a simple majority of voter approval to finance electric generation, transmission, or distribution facilities so long as those services are provided exclusively to the utility’s customers. It would also allow these municipal-owned utilities to negotiate long-term agreements with Bonneville Power Administration (their primary provider) or other suppliers without requiring an election.

Status: Approved by House; pending in Senate State Affairs.

Sponsor(s): Rep. Fred Wood and Sen. Joe Stegner.

Ken Miller

Clean Energy Program Director

Snake River Alliance

(208) 344-9161

kmiller@snakeriveralliance.org

www.snakeriveralliance.org

Legislative Update
Week 7
February 22 – February 26

Today the Senate took up Senate Bill 1353, the Freedom of Conscience for Health Care Professionals Act.  This bill allows any licensed health care provider to exempt themselves from services they find morally or religiously objectionable.  While physicians already retain this ability to withhold treatment, Idaho law does not extend this power to some health care professionals.  Proponents of the legislation argued that the conscience of pharmacists and nurses must be respected regarding the use of emergency contraception and similar divisive issues.  Senate Bill 1353 goes well beyond contraceptives; the overly broad language of this legislation allows for health care professionals to recuse themselves from any procedure they find objectionable.  Additionally, practitioners are not required to inform their patients about the existence of those medications or procedures – infringing on the rights of patients to make informed decisions about their health care.

Idahoans who live in the state’s larger cities may not experience the significant impacts of this bill; however, severe inadequacies in service could result in small communities with only a handful of practitioners.  Debate on the Senate floor was substantial, often highly emotional as the bill’s merits were defended and questioned by multiple Senators.  The implications of the legislation comprised a significant portion of the debate.  Senators with experience in the legal field cautioned that this bill, if it becomes law, will likely be judicially challenged in years to come.  Each Senator’s argument was taken into consideration with respect by the members.  I along with my Democratic collugues, were joined by seven Republicans in opposition to the bill, which utlimately passed on a 21-13 vote. The bill now heads to the House, with the House State Affairs Committee likely to hold a hearing in the coming weeks.

Next week I will be sponsoring House Bill 450, repealing the Clean Lakes Act of 1989, which was approved by the Senate Resources and Environment Committee.  This only repeals a defunct act, which has not been active since 1995, and has neither staff nor money.  This law created a council to educate the public and coordinate efforts in water quality management.  It is primarily a housekeeping measure, as there are more extensive and recent laws regulating Idaho’s lakes.  This bill has no fiscal impact.

The Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC) has begun setting agency budgets for Fiscal Year 2011, which begins on July 1.  This week, the committee took care of agencies who receive dedicated funds that cannot be shifted to other departments.  Next week, JFAC will begin to set the budget for public education, with unprecedented cuts likely. 

As always, I welcome any suggestions, or comments you have to offer. It is my honor to serve District 25. I can be reached by calling (208) 332-1353 or toll-free 1-800-626-0471, via email at mstennett@senate.idaho.gov, or by mail to P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720.

Legislative Update
Week 6
February 15 – February 19 

The Senate State Affairs Committee held a hearing earlier this week on House Bill 391, the so-called “Idaho Health Freedom Act.”  The bill, introduced by Representative Jim Clark of Hayden Lake, represents an effort to preempt the passage of any national health care reform.  As many of you may know, this bill passed the House on a party-line vote of 52-18 last week.  The Senate State Affairs Committee voted to send this bill to the floor of the Senate with a “do-pass” recommendation on Wednesday.  I, along with Senators Kate Kelly of Boise and Joe Stegner of Lewiston, voted against the measure. 

While health care reform remains a controversial issue, this bill represents little more than an ill-timed attack on federal legislation that doesn’t even exist.  The sponsors of this legislation may believe they have their constituents’ best interests in mind; however, condemning a national reform that is far from complete is foolhardy at best.  I voted against this legislation not just because of its policy implications, but also out of concern for the unintended consequences such legislation could pose to existing government programs.  Additionally, there could be a fiscal impact to the state of up to $100,000 if legal action is warranted.  The bill will likely be voted on in the Senate sometime next week. 

U.S. Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo and U.S. Representative Walt Minnick addressed the State Senate this week.  They provided the Idaho Senators with an update on their activities in Washington, D.C. and it was notable that each commented on the current partisan stalemate slowing progress in Congress.  These members of our congressional delegation congratulated the State Senate for its ability to frequently work together and overcome partisanship.  

Senators Risch and Crapo also commended the state for the constitutional requirement mandating a balanced budget.  Today, the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee (JFAC) balanced the current year’s state budget which protects K-12 schools from any further reductions for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2010.  What remains to be seen is how deeply JFAC’s 18-month budget planning process will impact state agencies in Fiscal Year 2011, including cuts to public education. 

I carried my first bills on the floor of the Senate this week.  They were minor bills but the Senators voted no and then unanimously yes as an initiation of sorts.  This warm welcome is indicative of the collegial environment that often exists on the Senate floor and which can soften even our most partisan arguments.

 As always, I welcome any suggestions, or comments you have to offer. It is my honor to serve District 25. I can be reached by calling (208) 332-1353 or toll-free 1-800-626-0471, via email at mstennett@senate.idaho.gov, or by mail to P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720.

Idaho Energy Update

February 8, 2010

 Idaho Power is holding public meetings this week to discuss its latest “Integrated Resource Plan,” which is pending before the Public Utilities Commission. The PUC also has accepted Avista Utilities’ 2009 IRP. And the NW Power and Conservation Council meets this week in Portland, where the four-state body is expected to act on the region’s Sixth Power Plan. And nearly a month into the Legislature, lawmakers have yet to take on significant energy legislation. Thanks as always, and if you have any calendar items, please send them along!

 Ken

 Ken Miller

Clean Energy Program Director

Snake River Alliance

(208) 344-9161

kmiller@snakeriveralliance.org

www.snakeriveralliance.org

I: Idaho Power Sets Public Meetings on Resource Plan

Idaho Power Co. will hold public meetings this week to provide information and to hear from customers about its 2009 Integrated Resource Plan, which was recently submitted to the Idaho Public Utilities Commission and which serves as a roadmap for the state’s largest utility to meet its future energy needs.

The 2009 IRP envisions adding about 3,000 megawatts of capacity over the next 20 years to meet expected load growth. That new capacity will come in the form of new renewable and gas-fired generation facilities, transmission to and from other markets, and energy efficiency and conservation. The plan envisions adding 540MW of new generation in the coming decade, including 300MW from the new Langley Gulch natural gas plant in Payette County, 150MW of new wind generation, and 40MW of new geothermal generation. An upgrade of the Shoshone Falls hydro facility will add another 20MW by 2015. The second decade of the plan envisions adding another 1,400MW of natural gas generation and 500MW in additional wind power. Major new transmission projects include the Gateway West transmission line from Wyoming to a new substation near Melba, and the Boardman-Hemingway line from that new Hemingway substation to a substation near Boardman near the Columbia River in Oregon.

The IRP does not include adding new coal-fired generation. While it acknowledges the need to prepare for federal policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to place a cost on carbon emissions, it does not outline a plan to reduce Idaho Power’s reliance on coal complexes in three neighboring states for nearly half its generation. It also remains agnostic on whether Idaho Power should consider withdrawing its 10 percent participation in the heavily polluting Boardman coal plant in Oregon, although the controlling owner, Portland General Electric, now says it may decommission that plant by 2020 rather than adding new pollution control equipment and running it through 2040. Assuming that happens, Idaho Power will need to replace the 50MW to 60MW of power it obtains from Boardman.

The Idaho PUC is taking public comment on the IRP through April 15. The Commission does not formally approve the plan, but acknowledges receipt of it and comments on it and uses it as a guideline for the utility’s future growth. Idaho Power’s last IRP was submitted in 2006 and updated in 2008. This IRP took considerably longer than normal to prepare as the company interrupted the process to re-evaluate its future load and sales forecasts to reflect reduced energy demands in light of the recession.

The public meetings will be held at 7 p.m. at the following locations:

-          Monday, Feb. 8, at Idaho Power’s Boise headquarters at 1221 W. Idaho Street.

-          Tuesday, Feb. 9, at the Pocatello Holiday Inn at 1399 Bench Road.

-          Wednesday, Feb. 10 at the Red Lion Canyon Springs Hotel at 1357 Blue Lakes in Twin Falls.

To review the 2009 IRP, visit www.idahopower.com/2009irp

II: Idaho PUC Acknowledges Avista’s Resource Plan

The Idaho Public Utilities Commission has acknowledged Avista Utilities 2009 IRP, which Avista said “guides the utility’s resource acquisition strategy over the next two years and the overall direction of resource procurements for the remainder of the 20-year planning horizon.”

Avista projects it will bump into annual energy shortages beginning in 2018 and peak power shortages in 2022. To meet new growth in demand, Avista submitted to the PUC a preferred plan that includes 250MW of new natural gas generation by 2019, 2024, and 2027, as well as 150MW of new wind by 2012 and 2019 and another 50MW by 2022. It also includes upgrades to existing hydropower facilities and 339MW of conservation through the planning period. PUC staff noted that Avista seems to be preparing itself for state greenhouse emissions regulations in its home of Washington state, as well as probable federal greenhouse gas reduction requirements. The IRP does not envision adding new carbon-spewing coal plants.

To review Avista’s IRP, visit www.puc.idaho.gov and click “File Room” and then “Electric Cases” and scroll to AVU-E-09-09.

III: Power Council Decision Likely this Week on Region’s 6^th Power Plan

The Northwest Power and Conservation Council is expected to reach a decision this week on whether to adopt the Sixth Power Plan, the region’s power planning roadmap that’s developed every five years. The Council, which is made up of two gubernatorial appointees each from Idaho, Montana, Washington, and Oregon, meets in Portland Tuesday and Wednesday. The Power Plan decision is on Wednesday morning’s agenda.

The Power Plan was developed over more than a year of data collection, computer modeling, and public input across the four-state region. On balance, it’s a realistic look at how the Northwest can meet its future electricity needs through energy efficiency and conservation, along with new renewables, rather than developing new thermal resources. The Plan sets ambitious – but very attainable – conservation targets for our region’s utilities. What it does not do, however, is plot a course for our region to plot a course to begin decommissioning our coal plants. There is no way for our region to meet our carbon reduction targets without taking a more realistic approach to these generators.

To review the plan and related documents, visit www.nwppc.org

On The Agenda:

► The Public Utilities Commission holds its next decision meetings on Feb. 9 22. Agendas are normally posted the day before on the Commission’s website at www.puc.state.id.us. The meetings typically start at 1:30 p.m.

►The Idaho Public Utilities Commission will be taking public comments through April 15 on Idaho Power’s Integrated Resource Plan, which is the company’s roadmap on how it plans to meet future energy demands through energy efficiency and new generation and transmission. The plan can be found on Idaho Power’s website at www.idahopower.com/2009IRP or at the PUC’s website at www.puc.state.id.us and then “File Room” and then “Electric Cases” and scrolling to IPC-E-09-33.

► Free Environmental Film Series & Community Discussion takes place every Thursday in February from 7 to 9 p.m. at the North End Organic Nursery in the upstairs room at 2350 W. Hill Road in Boise. This is an informal gathering and a chance to see and discuss environmental films in a community forum. See www.greenworksidaho.org/calendar.asp for movies in the series.

► Lunch & LEED: Sustainable Business Practices, a brown bag presented by the University of Idaho Boise, is a monthly meeting designed for business leaders in search of practical solutions that will help businesses make a commitment to sustain ability and improve their bottom line by focusing on people, profit and planet. Meetings will be on the first Thursday of every month. The meetings are at the University of Idaho Boise, 322 E. Front Street in the Legacy Pointe room on the first floor. They take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. RSVP to professionaldev@uidaho.edu or by calling 334-2999. Bring your own lunch; drinks and cookies will be provided.

IN THE LEGISLATURE: 1st Energy Bill Would Streamline Green Energy Permits

The first energy-related bill of the 2010 legislative session was introduced in the Senate, but S1273 may have a tough ride unless it can pick up some majority support. The “Grow Green Idaho Jobs Act” is designed to expedite permitting of renewable energy projects being reviewed by state or local government agencies and to “ensure stakeholder participation in the evaluation of projects.”

Each week, we’ll post thumbnail summaries on where the bills stand. Text of bills can be found by going to the Legislature’s main site at www.legislature.idaho.gov and clicking the “Bill Center” link and then “Legislation By Subject” and scrolling to the categories in which you’re interested in. Such as “Energy,” “Environment” or “Utilities.” You then click the link to the bill for more information. The Energy section currently looks like this:

Here’s a look at the status of pending bills:

Expedite Renewable Energy Projects Permit Review (S1273):

Requires local governments and the state to expedite permits for renewable energy projects and to provide for public meetings on such applications in an accelerated fashion.

Status: Referred to Senate State Affairs on 2/25. No hearing set.

Sponsor(s): Sen. Kate Kelly (332-1351) and the House and Senate Democratic caucuses.

Energy Resources Office, 2010 Supplemental Appropriation (S1302):

This supplemental appropriations bill provides $25 million in additional spending authority from the federal energy stimulus program and another $262,800 to the Office of Energy Resources.

Status: Approved by Senate Finance and awaiting full Senate approval this week.

Sponsor(s): Ray Houston, Office of Budget and Policy Analysis (334-4739).

Public Utilities Commission 2010 Supplemental Appropriation (H406):

Adds another $232,700 to the Public Utilities Commission 2010 budget from federal energy stimulus funds (Electricity Regulators Assistance Grant) to “increase capacity to manage significant increases in dockets and other regulatory actions resulting from American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (AARA) electricity –related topical areas. Topical areas include energy efficiency, renewable energy, energy storage and transmission, and smart grid technologies.”

Status: Approved by House and Senate.

Sponsor(s): Keith Bybee, Office of Budget and Policy Analysis (334-4739).

Legislative Update
Week 2
January 18 – January 22

Greetings from Idaho’s Statehouse!  The Legislature has spent two weeks in the newly restored people’s house and the dust is finally starting to settle.  With the expansion of the Capitol, there is room for large public participation in committee hearings, access to the Senate and House Chambers, and added space for legislators and their staff.  Earlier this week five strikingly diverse groups utilized the renovations and rallied all on the same day, without incident.  The beginnings of this year’s session look like we will be using every new space to its fullest as we balance the state budget, while providing the quality services Idahoans expect.

Every Idaho citizen has felt the effects of these economic difficulties and the Legislature, along with the Governor, continues to grapple with the financial situation the state finds itself in.  At the beginning of the session the Governor presented his State of the State and Budget address in which he recommended eliminating the funding of seven agencies, including the Department of Parks and Recreation as well as Idaho Public Television (IPTV).  While financial prudence is a necessity this year, as it is during every legislative session, these permanent cuts solve a temporary problem.  The errors of these solutions were evident in Governor Otter’s press conference earlier today, as he admitted that “the whole idea that we were going to eliminate the Parks Department was dead wrong.”  While this reverse decision from the Governor should be celebrated, it does create cause for alarm regarding his other drastic cuts.

Governor Otter does not seem to have had a similar change of heart regarding the elimination of state assistance for IPTV.  State funds account for approximately 23% of IPTV’s operating budget, with federal and private funds making up the rest.  When asked by the Idaho Statesman about the impacts of this dramatic cut, scheduled to occur over the next four years, IPTV general manager Peter Morrill commented that IPTV has "enough basic, private support for the Treasure Valley, eastern Idaho and the Coeur d'Alene area.”  Children in central Idaho should have access to “Sesame Street” just as the children in Boise do.  If compromises for the Department of Parks and Recreation and the Idaho Human Rights Commission can be made, why can’t Governor Otter find compromises to ensure IPTV broadcasts for all Idahoans?

Children in Idaho also face the threat of unacceptably and unprecedentedly low resource levels for schools and teachers.  Our teachers and administrators have worked with shrinking budgets for the past year and are continually asked to maintain healthy, positive environments for our students.  The Senate Education Committee voted earlier this week to approve new rules prepared by the Department of Education providing uniformity in teacher evaluations, improved middle school curriculums, and other enhancements in public education.  While these efforts are genuine attempts to better Idaho’s schools, they do demand more of teachers and administrators without providing additional funding or resources.  Currently the bills are held in committee and await further financial information.  This simply is not the time to demand more of our educational system while Republican leadership continues to slash their budgets.  I recommend that anyone concerned about the stretched resources in our public schools contact the members of the Senate and House Education Committees.

As always, I welcome any suggestions, or comments you have to offer. It is my honor to serve District 25. I can be reached by calling (208) 332-1353 or toll-free 1-800-626-0471, via email at mstennet@senate.idaho.gov, or by mail to P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720. 

Legislative Update
Week 3
January 25 – January 29

Work at the Statehouse has started to become as normalized as law-making can be.  A rhythm has developed as the renovated Capitol has grown more familiar to its residents.  As Idahoans are focused the happenings in this building, and especially on the Joint Finance Appropriations Committee (the budget writing committee), many are wondering when budget decisions will begin to be made for schools, social services and programs like Idaho Public Television.  By law, JFAC must first hear the budget presentations of the various departments and agencies of the state.  The target date to finish these hearings is Friday, February 19.  For those of you interested in when specific presentations will be made, JFAC’s tentative agenda can be viewed at http://legislature.idaho.gov/budget/JFAC/BudgetHearing.pdf .  If you are waiting to see what cuts will be made where, you’ll have some time to contact your legislators and members of JFAC to provide your input and ideas over the next few weeks.

Like the budgeting process, the method for introducing and debating bills is also methodical.  With print hearings, committee hearings, debate within committees and the rule-making process, few bills have been debated by the full House or Senate yet.  That does not mean that little is being done.  Thus far 131 pieces of legislation have been introduced, including a recent package of six bills by Democrats in both the House and Senate designed to foster job growth in Idaho.  The Idaho Jobs and Opportunity Blueprint (IJOBs) is an attempt by Democratic legislators to help revitalize Idaho’s economy and bring thousands of citizens out of unemployment.  This package includes: the creation of a jobs council in the Governor’s office, green energy production incentives, dissemination of industry data to small businesses, tax credits on earnings for small businesses, directed assistance to new small businesses, and a direct tax credit for the creation of new, well paid jobs in Idaho.  Currently, three of the six bills are scheduled to be heard in House committees next week, while Republican Leadership has yet to act on any of the bills introduced in the Senate last week. 

Another pertinent event this week was the budget presentations made by all of Idaho’s colleges and universities, as well as the public K-12 education budget presented by Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Luna.  From the College of Western Idaho’s record enrollment increases, to the use of financial reserves recommended by Superintendent Luna, there are many aspects that JFAC must take into consideration when handling education funding in Idaho. Due to lower than projected revenues, the current year’s budget still must be reconciled before next year’s budget can be addressed. Input from the public will be invaluable to legislators confronting difficult budget considerations, any of which have the potential to impact Idahoans in their daily lives.  I encourage you to contact your Senator and Representatives to voice your concerns; a list of legislators by district can be found at http://legislature.idaho.gov/who'smylegislator.htm .

As always, I welcome any suggestions, or comments you have to offer. It is my honor to serve District 25. I can be reached by calling (208) 332-1353 or toll-free 1-800-626-0471, via email at mstennet@senate.idaho.gov, or by mail to P.O. Box 83720, Boise, ID 83720. 

Editor Note: For Sun Valley area legislators, their emails are mstennett@senate.idaho.gov and wjaquet@house.idaho.gov

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 If you are a club representative or in a club that supports this idea, please forward this email to your club members and ask them to contact their legislators too!  If you know other people who are interested, forward this to them too - heck, forward this to every single trail user you know in all parts of the state!!

Here's the background blog: http://idmtbtrailassoc.blogspot.com/  - This should help people who don't know the whole story. The facebook page is here.