Wind farms in Idaho received a boost from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission Thursday when it said Idaho Power must purchase electricity from the farms regardless if demand is low, according to a story in the Idaho Statesman.

Idaho Power officials say forcing the company to buy power it does not need results in higher costs to the consumer and, in addition, limits how it manages its other power projects such as coal-fired plants.

Wind farm developers applauded the decision, maintaining that investment in wind projects was predicated upon being able to sell the power and that federal law requires Idaho Power to purchase the power unless there is an operational emergency.