Avista Rate Hike Faces Legal Pushback

Washington’s Attorney General is fiercely opposing Avista’s proposed 25% electricity and 10% natural gas rate hikes, arguing customers deserve far smaller increases since Avista holds monopoly power in key areas like Spokane Valley. Avista defends the plan as essential for infrastructure upgrades, wildfire safety, and clean energy goals, citing a January filing. The real decision rests with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission, which is weighing customer impact, cost justification, and profit margins. The AG’s office has flagged over $700 million in questionable costs—including out-of-state projects and Idaho golf community funding—and is pushing for a reduced shareholder dividend. With a public hearing set for August 27, the showdown centers on who pays what and how much Avista can profit. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/366c58c4ba575918