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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Rates for Avista’s Washington customers to rise on Jan. 1

Electric and natural gas rates will increase for Avista Utilities’ Washington customers on Jan. 1. Residential electric rates are increasing by about 2.7 percent. Typical customers using 965 kilowatt hours of electricity per month will see their bills increase by $2.13 for a total of $81.16 monthly. Natural gas rates will increase by about 6.1 percent. Typical residential customers using 65 therms of gas will see their bills increase by $3.71 per month for a total of $64.89. The state Utilities and Transportation Commission approved the changes today, following a settlement agreement recommended by commission staff. Avista’s electric revenues will increase by $12.1 million annually when the new rates take effect. The Spokane-based utility had initially asked for $18.2 million in new electric revenues. Avista’s gas revenues will increase by $8.9 million annually, compared to the utility’s initial request for $12.1 million in new revenues. The commission also ordered Avista to increase its contributions to the Low-Income Ratepayer Assistance program by $828,000. The program provides energy assistance to more than 12,000 low-income customers each year.