1. Why do some say Idaho Power is opposed to wind generation?


2. Why don’t we use wind energy for all of our energy?


3. Isn’t wind energy like hydro power in that it is “free”?


4. Why doesn’t Idaho Power build and own wind generation?
   
   
5. Why does Idaho Power have a Green Power Program if the company already has renewables in its resource mix?

1. Why do some say Idaho Power is opposed to wind generation? 
Idaho Power does not oppose wind energy. In fact we have contracts for nearly 400 megawatts (MW) of wind production that private developers are expected to build by the end of 2008.

Our concern is that we, and those who are trying to develop projects, fully understand all of the issues and associated costs surrounding the integration of wind power before these developments go on-line. As it is, Idaho Power’s customers ultimately will bear these costs.

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2. Why don’t we use wind energy for all of our energy? 
Wind generation is an intermittent resource. When the wind blows energy is produced but at a moment’s notice (when the wind stops) so does the energy delivered to Idaho Power and ultimately its customers.

Since our customers require energy at all times, regardless if the wind is blowing or not, it is necessary that Idaho Power develop a balanced mix of numerous resource types (wind, geothermal, hydro, thermal, etc.) that can be operated to complement each resource’s short comings.

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3. Isn’t wind energy like hydro power in that it is “free”? 
That's true to a point. The "fuel source" is free but there are significant costs for the actual generation equipment (wind turbines, transmission system, etc.). Because wind generation is intermittent, there are considerable costs associated with providing back up generation to fill in when the wind is not blowing.

On the other hand, hydropower is not intermittent and can be used at anytime it's needed. While it does rely upon the variability of stream flows to some degree, reservoir storage allows us to plan how much hydro we can depend upon. It can be counted upon to instantly meet changes in electricity use. Wind can't be counted upon to blow when there is a need for power.

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4. Why doesn’t Idaho Power build and own wind generation?  
At present we have nearly 400 MW of wind power projects under contract to be built by private developers who then sell the energy to Idaho Power Company. This 400 MW of wind power currently has met our need to create a balance.

There is no shortage of developers who want to build and operate wind energy facilities. If Idaho Power were to build its own wind plants in addition to these other projects, it would exceed our system's ability to integrate them.

The 2006 Energy Plan indicates a need for additional wind generation in the future and Idaho Power will pursue these new wind resources as our customers’ energy needs warrant.

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5.Why does Idaho Power have a Green Power Program if the company already has renewables in its resource mix?  
Everyone receives energy from the renewable resources that are in our portfolio or resource mix, but some customers wish to support additional resources that are environmentally friendly. That’s why Idaho Power offers the Green Power Program for those who voluntarily want to encourage more energy production from renewable, environmentally-friendly resources. These resources are certified by the Bonneville Environmental Foundation.