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HomeMy WebLinkAbout20240515Avista Extension 51 0515 Press Release.pdf ='III, Idaho Public Utilities Commission Brad Little,Govemor P.O. Bar 83720, Boise, ID 83720-0074 Eric Ardersm President John k Hammond, Jr,Commissioner Edward Lodge,Commissioner Case No.AVU-E-24-05 Order No. 36182 Contact:Adam Rush Office: (208) 334-0339 E-mail: adam.rush@puc.idaho.gov NEWS RELEASE: Commission approves utility application to update costs and administrative changes to electric line extension schedule 51. BOISE (May 15, 2024)—The Idaho Public Utilities Commission has approved an application from Avista Utilities that will allow it to update costs and administrative changes to the utility's electric line extension Schedule 51. This schedule incorporates the average costing for electric facilities commonly used to extend service. Schedule 51 sets forth basic and exceptional costs that have a fixed and variable component. The variable component is stated on a cost-per-foot basis. The basic and exceptional costs apply to infrastructure like transformers and conduit, and are based on recent average costs. Avista updated the allowances for new residential, industrial and commercial customers' services. The updated allowances are based on an embedded cost method which seeks to ensure investments in facilities for new customers track embedded costs included in base rates. Costs that exceed the allowance must be paid by the customer and will be booked as a contribution in aid of construction. The utility said the primary driver of higher costs are increased labor and transformer costs. Avista also said demand outpaces supply in the utility sector, driving prices upward. The commission reviewed Avista's application and found it fair,just and reasonable to approve it. Additional information on the application and the commission's approval of it is available at puc.idaho.gov/case/Details/7295.