Our Three-Pronged Energy Approach

Working with Utilities

We work with Idaho Power, Avista and Rocky Mountain to create rebate and incentive programs for all customers.

• Homeowners get rebates for an energy-efficient appliances or cash payments for cycling air conditioners.
• Businesses get help changing production practices or equipment to reduce energy consumption.

Working with the PUC

We also work with the Idaho Public Utilities Commission to keep electric rates low yet encourage investments in efficiency.

• We are breaking the "through-put incentive" where utilities earn more money by selling more energy. By "decoupling" their income from how much energy they sell, utilities are not discouraged from investing in efficiency.

• We advocate for rates that signal when energy has more or fewer impacts. During hot summer afternoons, our electricity comes from expensive natural gas plants. Rates tied to the time of use will raise the cost of this energy while reducing the cost during nighttime and cool weather.

Working with Decision Makers

In addition, we work with the Idaho Legislature, financial institutions and others to improve access to money for efficiency investments. For many people, the cost of efficiency upgrades is the highest hurdle to cross.

• ICL is working on a program to provide upfront financing at low interest rates with long-term payback periods.
• We are working with the Office of Energy Resources to use federal stimulus money to reduce energy use and improve air quality in our schools.