State regulators have approved changes in two contracts between Idaho Power Co. and Piedmont, Calif.-based Energy Vision LLC, the developer of Hot Springs Wind Farm LLC and Bennett Creek Wind Farm LLC. The two 10 MW wind projects were originally required to be online by Dec. 31, but the developer found that unanticipated upgrades to Idaho Power's transmission network will be needed before the projects can be built.Â
Idaho Power explains that the delay in interconnection has caused the projects' investor and wind turbine supplier to reallocate the wind farms' turbines to other projects. Bennett Creek and Hot Springs must now wait for the next available turbines, which are due before the end of this year. One of the contract amendments requires a modification of the turbine type and size.
In addition, Idaho Power will now allow the developer about one more year to bring the projects online before having to pay the Boise, Idaho-based utility delay damages. Both Bennett Creek and Hot Springs have agreed to provide Idaho Power with liquid security in an amount sufficient to cover the delay liquidated damages in the event the projects do not meet new deadlines, Idaho Power adds.
