The Idaho Public Utilities Commission is hosting online workshops this week to discuss Avista’s request for increased power and natural gas rates.

Avista is seeking approval for a rate increase for its North Idaho customers. The proposed changes include raising power rates for the average residential customer by approximately 15%, which would increase the average monthly bill by about $15 to $120. The basic charge is expected to rise by $5 to $25 per month, with these proposed changes set to take effect on September 1st.

Additionally, Avista intends to raise power rates by another 5% and increase the basic charge by an additional $5 starting in September of the following year.

For natural gas, Avista proposes a rate increase of 10%, translating to an additional $6, which would bring the average residential bill to $67 per month. If approved, these new rates would also begin in September, with a further request for a 1% hike on natural gas in September of next year.

Avista representatives indicate that these rate adjustments are necessary to fund increases in net plant investment and to manage rising operating and maintenance costs.

The Idaho Public Utilities Commission has the authority to approve, deny, or modify Avista’s request. Online workshops are scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. The Wednesday meeting begins at 6:00 p.m. and will continue until all customer inquiries are addressed, while the Thursday workshop starts at noon.

To participate in the May 14 workshop, visit http://idahogov.webex.com and enter meeting number 2632 014 9728. Click the green “Join” button, and enter the password: Avista. After that, enter your name and email address, and click “Next.” Finally, click the green “Join Webinar” button.

To join via phone, call 1-415-655-0001 and enter meeting number 2632 014 9728 when prompted.

For the May 15 workshop, visit http://idahogov.webex.com and enter meeting number 2631 125 1172. Follow the same steps as above, using the password: Avista.

To participate by phone for this session, call 1-415-655-0001 and enter meeting number 2631 125 1172 when prompted.