The Idaho Public Utilities Commission has allowed Idaho Power Co. to terminate an "industrial efficiency" conservation program designed to promote the installation of energy efficient equipment by both industrial and large commercial users through the use of grants awarded by the utility.
The commission found that the way to implement such goals is changing in light of electric industry restructuring, while declaring its continuing support for utility investment in conservation and renewable-based resources.
Under the program, Idaho Power made grant payments to cover part of the cost of installing the energy efficient equipment and recovered the grant costs from ratepayers over an extended period of time. The utility alleged several of its largest customers had suggested that it discontinue such demand-side management programs because they "simply add to deferred costs and increase the cost of power over time."