This bill amends Chapter 3, Title 61 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 61-335, which establishes regulations for "new large loads" in the context of public utilities. A "new large load" is defined as any electric power requirement that reaches or is expected to reach a cumulative power requirement of twenty megawatts or more within five years. The bill mandates that public utilities cannot provide electric service to such loads without the approval of an electric service agreement from the Idaho Public Utilities Commission (PUC). This agreement must ensure that there is no rate increase for existing consumers and must undergo a "no-harm test" to evaluate the potential impact on existing rates.

The bill outlines the responsibilities of the PUC in conducting the no-harm test, which includes assessing all costs and risks associated with serving the new large load. It also requires the new large load consumer to reimburse the PUC for the costs of conducting this test. Additionally, the electric service agreement must include provisions for financial security to protect against stranded investments if the contracted power requirement is not met. The bill emphasizes the need for ongoing assessments every three years to ensure that the new large load does not negatively impact existing consumers. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2026.