Avista Reaches Settlement for Idaho Electric, Gas Rate Increases

Avista Corporation has reached a settlement agreement with the Idaho Public Utilities Commission and other stakeholders to adjust electric and natural gas rates in Idaho, pending regulatory approval. The agreement proposes a phased electric rate increase of 6.3% in September 2025 and 4.5% in September 2026, raising annual base electric revenues by $19.5 million and $14.7 million respectively. Natural gas rates will increase by 9.2% in 2025, adding $4.6 million in revenues, followed by a slight 0.4% decrease in 2026. Residential customers using average consumption levels can expect their monthly electric bills to rise by $6.95 in 2025 and $5.22 in 2026, while natural gas bills will increase by $4.11 in 2025 with no change in 2026. The settlement includes a 9.6% return on equity and a 50% common equity ratio, supporting Avista's infrastructure investments and financial stability while providing customer support programs to mitigate bill impacts. This agreement represents a compromise from Avista's initially requested higher increases and aims to balance the interests of customers, shareholders, and the company.