A/C Cool Credit is an easy way to earn a monthly bill credit during the summer while helping keep energy reliable when demand is highest.
On a few select weekday afternoons, when energy use peaks or when the system needs support, your air conditioner or smart thermostat will briefly adjust to reduce strain on the system. You can participate in one of two simple ways:
- A/C Cycling – Idaho Power cycles your central air conditioning on and off using a device installed by a program professional.
- Smart Thermostat Demand Response – Your smart thermostat automatically adjusts settings to shift some energy use away from peak hours.
Your participation in A/C Cool Credit helps ensure reliable energy and the wise use of our natural resources, and you’ll earn a $5 a month credit on your summer energy bills.
When energy demand is high and we need to activate A/C Cool Credit, Idaho Power will call what’s known as an “event.” Events occur on select summer weekdays, typically in the late afternoon or evening, and not on weekends or holidays. Each event will be no longer than four hours. During an event, participating A/C units or smart thermostats make small, temporary adjustments to help reduce strain on the system. In the unlikely case of a system emergency, Idaho Power may cycle A/Cs for longer periods to help maintain overall service reliability.
The program is active June 15 to Sept. 15. Unless you decide to end your enrollment, you’ll be included in the program each summer, as long as you live at your current residence.
You may quit the program at any time, but the credit will only apply to those full months you participated.
| A/C Cycling Option | Smart Thermostat Option | |
|---|---|---|
| Enrollment Incentive | None | $50 for new Smart Thermostat customers, who have not participated in the A/C Cycling option with the last 12 months. Incentives are limited to one incentive per house. |
| Participation Credits | $5/month on your July, Aug., Sept. and Oct. bills | Participation incentives begin in the second year of program participation, customers will then receive a $5 per month credit for June, July, August and September participation. Customer must participate in at least 50% of demand response hours for each month to qualify for the monthly credit. |
| Qualifications | Residential A/C units used for a central air system or an air-source heat pump qualify. Water-source heat pumps, ductless heat pumps, two-stage units, evaporative (swamp) coolers and window units are not eligible. Units must be in good working condition and have clear and easy access. Customer’s central A/C equipment must be fully functional and comply with the National Electric Code (NEC) standards. | Residential customers with central air conditioning, or a ducted heat pump that are controlled by a qualified smart thermostat. Eligibility requires that the smart thermostat remain connected to the internet throughout program participation. Only offered in Idaho. |
| How Does the Program Work | When an event occurs, your AC gets a signal to increase its on/off cycling, resulting in reduced energy usage. | When an event occurs, your thermostat will automatically shift some of your A/C energy use away from peak times when energy demand is high. |
| How to Apply | Click here to enroll. You can also enroll by calling the A/C Cool Credit program at 1-866-865-COOL (2665) | If you have a smart thermostat controlling a central air conditioning, or a ducted heat pump, you’re eligible for our Smart Thermostat program. Just select your thermostat below, follow the link, and enroll. |
Smart Thermostat Enrollment
To apply for the Smart Thermostat option, please select the type of thermostat you have from the list below, and follow the instructions on the form. For questions specifically for smart thermostat enrollment, please email idahopower@energyhub.com.
Technical Support or Device Issues
If you’re experiencing and issues with the A/C Cycling device, please contact us at 1-866-865-COOL (2665).
If you are a Smart Thermostat participant and have issues with your thermostat or need help, please contact your smart thermostat’s customer service team at:
- ecobee: 877-932-6233
- Honeywell Home: 800-633-3991
- Sensi: 888-605-7131
- Trane/American Standard: 877-288-7707
Frequently Asked Questions and Terms & Conditions
Smart Thermostat Terms & Condition
A/C Cycling Terms & Conditions
Learn More About the A/C Cycling Option
For assistance with a PDF on this page or to request a PDF in an alternate format, please contact Customer Service at 208-388-2323 or 1-800-488-6151