BOISE, Idaho -- The tense relationship between Idaho's renewable energy developers and its regulated utilities was on display at the first of three days of hearings where state regulators consider new rules governing small, independent power projects.

For instance, Public Utilities Commission members Tuesday had to referee an exchange where the developers' attorney, Peter Richardson, blasted Rocky Mountain Power for suggesting that alternative projects were committing fraud.

Against this backdrop, the PUC hopes to settle differences between the two sides over the price utilities must pay renewables developers for their electricity.

Richardson contends the hearings' outcome could end Idaho alternative energy development,... [continue via Web link]