High Temps, High Usage - What Can You Do?

Record high temperatures across the West have increased the demand for electricity throughout the region. This causes wholesale power prices to increase substantially. Idaho Power relies on wholesale electricity purchases to meet up to one-fourth of electricity needs during hot summer afternoons.  To help reduce the impact of these high prices, Idaho Power encourages everyone to use energy wisely and efficiently at all times, but especially between 4-8 p.m. during hot weather.

High temperatures during the summer months typically cause sharp peaks in the demand for electricity due to the increased use of air conditioners and irrigation pumps. The company’s hydroelectric power production capabilities also have been reduced this year by low stream flows, which diminishes our ability to generate power and makes us buy more power to serve you.

These energy imports can cost two to six times higher than the rates we can charge. These are costs that ultimately will be reflected in customers’ rates when the annual Power Cost Adjustment to rates is applied next June.

How Can I Save Energy?

To help lower your power bills and reduce demand on the electrical system during hot weather, turn up your thermostat and shut off lights and non-essential electrical appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers, on weekdays between 4 and 8 p.m.

Our energy-saving tips include other ideas for using energy more efficiently.

Idaho Power also offers a variety of programs covering everything from education to incentives to meet the unique needs of our residential, business, and Irrigation customers.