Quick question for the group. Have a client in Boise who switched from Idaho Power's default rate Schedule 19 to a competitive supplier called Rocky Mountain Power Solutions. The supplier promised 20% savings but the bills are showing higher costs than before. Idaho Power shows the generation charges correctly but there are extra line items I can't reconcile. Anyone familiar with Idaho's deregulated market structure? I thought they were still regulated for most customer classes.
Idaho Power vs Third Party Supplier Math Not Adding Up
Warren, I think you might be dealing with a scam supplier. Idaho Power territory isn't fully deregulated like Texas or Pennsylvania. Most commercial customers are still on regulated rates. If someone is claiming to be a competitive supplier for Idaho Power customers, I'd be very suspicious. Have you verified this Rocky Mountain Power Solutions is legitimate with the Idaho PUC?
Jennifer, you're absolutely right. I did some digging and Rocky Mountain Power Solutions isn't registered with the IPUC. This appears to be a billing scam. The 'supplier' was just adding fees on top of Idaho Power's standard rate and hoping nobody would notice. I've advised my client to file a complaint with the Attorney General's office and revert to standard Idaho Power billing immediately.
Warren, good catch on identifying the scam. This is becoming more common in regulated territories where fake suppliers prey on customers who think they're in deregulated markets. Always verify supplier registration with the state commission first. Glad your client didn't get taken for too much money before you figured it out.