Idaho Falls Power to rent mobile substation for up to $630,000 over 18 months

Idaho Falls Power General Manager Frederickson told council the utility has an 18-month rental agreement for a Delta Star mobile substation at $35,000 per month, totaling $630,000, and that staff recommends approval to put an idle asset to productive use. The contract includes an option to extend the lease for six months at $40,000 per month.

Council asked questions about the unit's history and where it would be deployed; the general manager said the city retains contractual options and can demand the unit back if needed. A motion to approve the short-term equipment rental agreement and authorize the mayor and city clerk to execute documents passed at the meeting.

Why it matters: renting an idle mobile substation provides revenue and preserves an emergency resource while the utility evaluates current reliability and infrastructure needs.