Specifically, where it is determined that the allocation for irrigation represents more money than the agricultural water users are able to pay, that portion above their ability is reassigned to the power users for repayment. That portion is termed irrigation aid. The repayment of costs that ensues, once the above process is completed, takes on the form of power and energy sales, water sales, and facility use fees. Where the cost assignments goes to the taxpayer, no repayment is made. Such is the case for flood control, recreation, navigation, or any similar benefit which serves the general welfare of the American people.
Federal utilities have a variety of purposes.
The power marketing administrations follow Department of Energy procedures, similar to BPA procedure. The Federal utilities are not subject to State government regulation. Procedures for BPA rate changes are outlined in the Pacific Northwest Electric Power Planning and Conservation Act of 1980. According to these procedures, the BPA administrator first publishes a notice in the Federal Register that BPA intends to change rates. Then BPA prepares revenue requirements and rate design studies, and an initial proposal.