Idaho utilities commission to host events for Veolia’s request to increase water rates

Veolia employs nearly 179,000 people worldwide, and it is Idaho’s largest water utility. (Courtesy of Veolia)

The Idaho Public Utilities Commission is hosting a series of events ahead of a decision on whether to allow Veolia Water to raise its rates.

Veolia is Idaho’s largest utility, and it is requesting to increase rates by 20.5 percent. If the commission approves the request in full, the average residential customer’s bill would increase by $6.77 per month and the average commercial customer’s bill would increase by $24.63 per month.

Included in the utility’s service territory are customers who were previously served by Eagle Water Company. These customers were granted legacy status, which set their rates at a fixed amount for a period of time. Rates will continue to phase in over time. If the utility’s request is approved in full, the Eagle average residential customer will see an increase of $4.52 per month and the average Eagle commercial customer will see an increase of $16.42 per month.

The commission will host three events meant to first answer questions from the public, second event to take testimony from customers, and third to hear from parties to the case. Each event will include options to listen in through the phone. 

When: 6 p.m. March 20
How to participate: Visit idahogov.webex.com and enter meeting number 2630 100 0592. Click “Join,” and enter the password: VeoliaWorkshop. Next click “Join Webinar” and enter name and email. 

To participate by phone, call 1-415-655-0001 and enter meeting number 2630 100 0592.

When: 6 p.m. May 13
Where: Idaho Public Utilities Commission, 1331 W. Chinden Blvd., Building 8, Suite 201-A, Boise

In-person attendance is required to submit testimony. Those interested in listening in can call 1-415-655-0001 and enter meeting number 2862 059 1623. 

When: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 21
Where: Idaho Public Utilities Commission, 1331 W. Chinden Blvd., Building 8, Suite 201-A, Boise

A technical hearing is an opportunity for parties to the case to present witnesses, testimony and exhibits.

To watch online, visit idahogov.webex.com and enter meeting number 2861 175 6228. Then click “Join,” and enter the password VeoliaHearing. Next click “Join Webinar” and enter name and email. 

To listen to the hearing over the phone, please call 1-415-655-0001 and enter meeting number 2861 175 6228. 

Veolia customers can submit comments related to Veolia’s application on the Idaho Public Utilities Commission’s website. Comments must include the individual’s name and address. 

Customers can also mail comments to:

Idaho Public Utilities Commission
P.O. Box 83720
Boise, ID 83720-0074

When filing comments, customers must reference the rate case docket number: VEO-W-24-01.

The last time Veolia changed its rate was in 2022. The Idaho Public Utility Commission must approve, reject or modify the proposal.