SPOKANE, WA – Avista Utilities is now proposing lower rate hikes on electricity and natural gas for its North Idaho customers. The Spokane based utility has proposed a settlement with the Idaho Public Utilities Commission. Avista had previously asked to raise power rates by a combined 20% over the next 14 months. That plan also included a 10 dollar hike in the monthly basic charge. Avista also initially asked to raise natural gas rates by about 12% during the same time.

The new settlement request proposed by Avista asks the commission to approve a 6% hike on electric rates to begin in September followed by another 4.5% percent increase in September of next year. The utility has dropped its ask for a hike in the monthly basic charge. For natural gas, Avista now wants to raise rates by 9% this September and another 0.4% in September of 2026.

The commission will be taking public comments about Avista’s new request during a telephone hearing on Thursday. It begins at noon and will continue until all customer comments have been heard. Those who want to comment need to call 1-415-655-0001 and enter meeting number 2861 516 9950 by 11:55 Thursday morning.