Despite the conditions referenced above, there is a bright side: The PUC has approved five solar power contracts with Idaho Power that would total about $322.5 million over 20 years and deliver a total of 100 megawatts to Idaho Power, which is no small thing.
“While stating that the projects qualify under federal PURPA provisions, the Commission’s order expresses concern that the federal law may be compelling utilities to buy energy they do not need,” the Commission said in a news release. “The order states that utilities should inform the Commission as to whether additional review of contract terms and conditions for federal PURPA projects is necessary.”
The order was issued in this case. And it pertains to other cases as well, since other contracts were part of the same overall docket.