PAYETTE COUNTY, Idaho — Idaho Power says it needs more electricity to keep up with the state's rapid growth — the utility is looking to natural gas to increase capacity and reliability of the grid.
“As the valley grows, so does Idaho Power, and to meet those growing needs, we have to add resources,” said Eric Hackett, who manages Idaho Power’s new power production facilities.
Hackett said natural gas plants like the Langley Gulch facility in Payette County are crucial for providing reliable year-round electricity.
WATCH: Get an inside look at the Langley Gulch natural gas plant
“These gas projects are really efficient, so they’re gonna really provide a lot of stability to the system,” Hackett said. “They ramp really quickly to provide really reliable power.”
Natural gas currently produces about 20% of Idaho Power’s energy. Hydroelectric power accounts for about 40%, and about 20% comes from renewable sources such as solar. But Hackett says solar struggles to meet demand in the colder months.
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