Oregon Public Utility Commission seeks input on Idaho Power sale

The Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) is seeking public input regarding a proposed $154 million sale of Idaho Power’s Oregon distribution system to the Oregon Trail Electric Cooperative (OTEC).

If approved, the transaction would transfer Idaho Power’s Oregon service territory to OTEC, making approximately 20,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Malheur, Harney, Baker, and Wallowa counties OTEC member-owners. OTEC currently serves Baker, Union, Grant, and Harney counties. Under the agreement, OTEC would purchase wholesale energy from Idaho Power through a multi-year arrangement. While Idaho Power would no longer serve Oregon customers directly, it would maintain ownership and operation of generation and transmission facilities in the state, including the Boardman to Hemingway transmission line.

The PUC has scheduled meetings to gather community feedback, including a virtual meeting on August 18, 2026, and an in-person meeting on August 24, 2026, at Ontario City Hall. The parties have requested a decision on the deal by February 20, 2027, with an expected closing in early 2027.