Avista files rate hike plan

Avista on Friday filed a four-year general rate case with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. 

If approved, the average Washington residential electric customer using 925 kWh per month would see an increase from $124.23 today to $157.94 in 2030, with an initial $17.21 increase in 2027 and smaller amounts each year after.

The average Washington residential natural gas customer using 61 therms per month would see an increase from $91.06 today to $100.46 in 2030, with an initial $4.14 increase in 2027 and smaller amounts each year after. 

New electric and natural gas rates are proposed to take effect Jan. 1 of 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

"As a lifelong member of this community, I recognize that rising energy costs are difficult for our customers," said Heather Rosentrater, Avista president and CEO. “While this rate request reflects what’s needed to maintain safe, reliable service, we’re committed to helping customers manage their bills through payment assistance programs and energy-saving tools, while continuing to control costs and investing in technology to improve efficiencies.”  

The commission has up to 11 months to review the general rate case filings and issue a decision in late 2026.

Avista Corp. provides electric service to 422,000 customers and natural gas to 383,000 customers. Its service territory covers 30,000 square miles in eastern Washington, North Idaho and parts of southern and eastern Oregon.