125th Anniversary of Idaho Utility, Launch of New Peaker Plant

On December 4, Idaho Falls Power officially inaugurated a new natural gas peaking power facility, describing the event as a significant milestone in its 125-year history. The 17.5-megawatt plant reflects a $36 million investment aimed at enhancing local energy capacity.

The construction contract for the plant was approved by the Idaho Falls City Council, which governs the utility, in early 2024. Meridian-based construction firm ESI played a key role in both planning and building the facility.

From lighting the citys first streetlamp over a century ago, Idaho Falls Power has maintained a legacy of innovation, fiscal prudence, and affordable electricity, said Mayor Rebecca Casper. This new plant continues that tradition.

Project manager Alan Cunningham added, Partnering with ESI was invaluable. Their hands-on involvement throughout every stage of construction was crucial to the success of our design-build approach.

Michael Papac, ESIs executive vice president, stated, Our teams are honored to support Idaho Falls Power in delivering a facility that will have a lasting impact on the community by meeting energy demands efficiently and sustainably.

The plant is designed to provide electricity during periods of peak demand, such as the hottest summer days and coldest winter nights. This capability allows Idaho Falls Power to reduce reliance on the wholesale electricity market during high-cost periods.

This additional generation strengthens local control, price stability, and addresses regional capacity concerns, said Stephan Boorman, interim general manager for Idaho Falls Power. The utility emphasized that increasing local generation helps maintain stable and predictable electricity rates for customers.

Hydropower Legacy

Idaho Falls became the first city in the state with its own electric power plant in 1900. Today, Idaho Falls Power operates four hydroelectric dams along the Snake River, which provide roughly one-third of the citys energy.

The new peaking plant was built to support the citys growing population and expanding commercial activity. Idaho Falls hosts the Idaho National Laboratory, a key center for nuclear research and development.

The facility features seven Caterpillar generators that run on natural gas and are designed to operate on hydrogen when commercially available. The utility coordinated closely with the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality to ensure regulatory compliance.

The project cost includes advanced emissions controls, keeping emissions well below legal limits and allowing potential future expansion. Minimizing environmental impact was a major factor in securing unanimous City Council approval, Boorman said.

Funding was arranged through the Idaho Energy Resource Authority (IERA), with repayment planned over approximately 15 years. Josh Roos, IFPs CFO, noted, IERA secured our revenue bond at a low 3.27% rate, saving millions over the life of the loan.

Boorman concluded, Our utility is proud to serve the community and continue a legacy of energy innovation by investing in infrastructure that meets present and future needs.

Author: Gavin Porter