This bill amends Chapter 3, Title 61 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 61-335, which establishes provisions regarding "new large loads" in the context of public utilities. A "new large load" is defined as any electrical load that increases power requirements by thirty megawatts or more within a consecutive thirty-six month period and is subject to a service contract with a public utility entered into on or after July 1, 2026. The bill mandates that public utilities can only provide service to these new large loads under commission-approved service contracts, which must be filed with the commission for approval prior to service provision. The commission is required to review and approve or deny these contracts within 180 days, ensuring that service quality and reliability are maintained for existing customers and that new large loads contribute to infrastructure costs.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions to prevent new large loads from circumventing their classification by splitting their load across multiple service entrances. The commission is tasked with issuing guidance to ensure that the introduction of new large loads does not lead to increased rates for other customers. The bill also clarifies that providing electric service under these provisions does not grant any preference or advantage to the new large loads, nor does it create unreasonable differences in rates or services. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2026.