Public Safety Power Shutoff

During high-risk wildfire events, Idaho Falls Power might have to temporarily shut off power lines to prevent wildfires. This could happen when the risks are too high in certain areas of our community where we have power lines over dry vegetation. This is called a public safety power shutoff (PSPS). During a PSPS, Idaho Falls Power is taking proactive steps to keep our community safe. A PSPS is a last resort to prevent fires.

What triggers a PSPS?

PSPS are used only during extreme weather conditions — primarily high winds and dry vegetation — that lead to high fire risk. Many factors go into the decision to call a PSPS. Using forecasts and real-time observations, the following are the primary factors we look at in determining if a PSPS is necessary:

We also monitor what the surrounding large utilities are doing and assess regional PSPS risks and events. Furthermore, we collaborate and communicate during these events with our local Idaho Falls Fire Department to balance the risks of electricity service vs fire risk.

Other Factors

Idaho Falls Power generates locally less than 1/3 of its own electricity in the summer months and even less in the winter. We purchase the rest of our power from other sources outside of Eastern Idaho. That electricity comes through PacificCorp’s transmission lines. In Eastern Idaho, PacificCorp’s subsidiary, Rocky Mountain Power, is responsible for transmission lines.

The transmission network connects numerous power plants and regional grids, enabling the transfer of electricity across the Northwest. During PSPS, PacificCorp may shut down transmission lines to prevent wildfires. This temporary interruption in the transmission system can stop the flow of electricity from the regional grid to Idaho Falls. During these scenarios, we do not have other options for electricity supply to our community and would be forced to also shut down power delivery to our customers.

The duration of these outages is subject to the severity of the weather conditions and the time required for inspections and repairs. Once it is deemed safe, power is restored to the grid and surrounding communities.

What it means for customers

• Idaho Falls Power will communicate with impacted customers in advance of and during a PSPS.
• Customers in areas at higher risk for wildfire are more likely to experience PSPS. However, a PSPS could be used anywhere in Idaho Falls Power’s service area if dangerous conditions warrant.
• Idaho Falls Power will consider a PSPS when weather and fire experts forecast dangerous conditions, including strong winds, very dry vegetation, and low humidity.
• Idaho Falls Power will restore power only when it is safe to do so – after the weather has passed and crews can inspect the impacted power lines and make any needed repairs. This could take hours if damaging winds occur, and we want you to be prepared.

How will customers be notified?

Idaho Falls Power is committed to providing you with information and notifications of any PSPS. Follow Idaho Falls Power on social media for the latest information.

All customers should be prepared for outages, including a PSPS.

Customers should always be prepared for any outage. Preparing for a PSPS helps you better navigate a power outage and support your community during these events. Assemble an emergency kit with essentials like non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and other essentials. Ensure you have back up power for medical devices and if using a generator, only do so in a well-ventilated area.