Avista to resume gas efficiency programs

The Idaho Public Utilities Commission voted Dec. 30 to allow Avista Utilities to resume natural gas efficiency programs and the rider that will accompany them effective Jan. 1.

The programs were suspended in 2012 for Avista’s 78,000 natural gas customers in northern Idaho because low natural gas prices rendered the programs no longer cost-effective.

Resumption of the programs now, with natural gas prices back on an upward trend, is in the public interest, the commission ruled. “We conclude that Avista customers will ultimately benefit through resumption” of the programs, the commission said.

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