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Renewable Northwest urges coordinated planning for solar as Idaho electricity demand grows
Summary
Aaron Menenberg of Renewable Northwest told Washington County commissioners on June 22 that Idaho's energy demand is rising, said Idaho Power is among the fastest-growing utilities in the Northwest, and urged local and regional coordination on solar development and review of the proposed Solar Ordinance.
Aaron Menenberg, representing Renewable Northwest, addressed the Board on June 22 about the region's electricity demand and the potential role of renewable energy.
Menenberg said Idaho is experiencing rapid demand growth for electric power and that Idaho Power ranks among the fastest-growing utilities in the Northwest and is in the top ten nationwide for growth, according to his presentation. He told commissioners there is insufficient infrastructure to meet current demand and that counties in the Idaho Power service territory, including Washington County, can help identify solutions.
Menenberg reviewed the proposed Solar Ordinance and advocated for development done "well," noting that properly sited solar can allow land to be returned to production, does not use water, and does not create noise or light. He encouraged the county to coordinate with regulators, utilities and the private sector and suggested reaching out to Bannock County to learn from their work on solar energy.
Bridget Felmley, the Planning and Zoning Administrator, was unable to attend the meeting; Menenberg’s presentation was received in her absence.
