Avista seeks to raise natural gas prices

SPOKANE – An increase in rates for natural gas of 10% and a 0.3% decrease in electricity rates start Nov. 1 for Avista customers.

Avista requested permission for two annual rate adjustments with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission.

Permission is needed for Avista to incorporate the rate changes.

“The increase is primarily driven by wholesale natural gas costs that are higher than the level presently included in rates,” stated spokesperson Celena Mock. “Over the last decade, wholesale natural gas prices have remained very low, however, in recent months wholesale natural gas p...