Quick question for the group - Idaho Power has both a "Customer Charge" and a "Service Charge" on their commercial tariffs. The customer charge is $15/month which seems standard, but there's also a $8.50 "service charge" that I can't find any clear justification for in the tariff language. Account rep says it's for "meter reading and billing services" but isn't that what the customer charge covers? Anyone familiar with Idaho Power's rate structure? This feels like double-dipping to me.
Idaho Power "customer charge" vs "service charge" - what's the difference?
Warren, that does sound suspicious. Most utilities roll meter reading and billing into the basic customer charge. NV Energy here in Nevada has just one monthly service charge that covers all administrative costs. I'd request Idaho Power provide a detailed breakdown of what specific services each charge covers. If there's overlap, you might have grounds to challenge the service charge as duplicative. Worth filing an informal inquiry with the Idaho PUC.
Thanks Cliff, that's exactly what I was thinking. Filed the informal inquiry last week and Idaho Power responded that the service charge covers "additional administrative services beyond basic customer service." Still pretty vague. The PUC staff is reviewing whether this constitutes an unauthorized tariff deviation. Will keep everyone posted if we get any resolution. Even $8.50 monthly adds up over time for multiple locations.