Avista, a key utility provider in Spokane County, Washington, is gearing up for a significant project that could reshape the region’s energy landscape. According to recent filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Avista has entered into a preliminary agreement to supply electricity to a ‘large load’ customer, whose identity remains undisclosed in the filings.

Project Details and Capacity Requirements

The project is expected to commence in 2029 with an initial demand of 125 megawatts (MW), with the potential to expand to 500 MW by 2032. To put this into perspective, Avista’s 2025 Annual Report indicates that the company’s total owned generating capacity is 1,687 MW. If the project reaches its full potential, it would require nearly 30% of Avista’s current generating capacity.

Planning for Future Energy Needs

Avista officials have stated in the SEC filing that they are actively exploring new power generation sources to accommodate this new demand while ensuring reliable service for existing customers in their service areas. This proactive approach underscores the company’s commitment to meeting future energy needs without compromising current service reliability.

Regulatory Approvals Required

Before the project can proceed, it must secure federal and local permits and receive final approval from the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission. These steps are crucial to ensure that the project aligns with regulatory standards and community interests.

Original reporting: KREM Spokane — read the source article.