Idaho Power pursues biomass energy
| March 21, 2004 |  View for printing |
Idaho Power Co. wants to buy electricity from a biomass energy operation proposed at the old Boise Cascade plant near Emmett.
The 17.5-megawatt plant would break down organic matter like trees, plants and even manure to create methane gas that would power a generator.
http://www.idahostatesman.com/News/story.asp?ID=63720
The utility is seeking Idaho Public Utilities Commission approval of a 20-year contract with Renewable Energy of Idaho, which plans to design, construct and operate the biomass facility.
A federal act passed in the 1970s requires utilities to buy energy from small power producers that generate energy from sources other than fossil fuels. Those include hydroelectric, solar and biomass power.
For the first 10 megawatts, Idaho Power would pay Renewable Energy the rate established by the Idaho commission.
Because 10 megawatts is the largest project that can qualify for the published avoided-cost rate, Idaho Power and Renewable Energy have negotiated a rate beyond 10 megawatts that is based on a market price.
The deadline for comments is April 7. 
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