20150901Comment.pdf

03:55.57 pm 08—31—2015 1 J 2082638320
From:East Bonnet Co.Library
I H E S I [B L E S
50U GLTHRIE PI.\CE,1304 P0 BOX 33
DoVER,ID •83825
PHOXE:307-399-2925
IDAHO PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION
PC Box 83720
Boise,ID 83720---07
Reference:Avista Rate Increase Requests,
Tariff I.P.U.C.No.28 (Electric)and Tariff LP.U.C,No.27 (Natural Gas)
Docket Nos.AVU-E-15-05 and AVU-G-15-Ol
Dear Idaho Public Utilities Commissioners:
I have a problem with Avista’s requested increases in the monthly electric basic charge from
$5.25 to $8.50 and the monthly natural gas basic charge from $4.25 to $8.00.These increases
are 62%and 88%,respectively.
First of all,I understand the need to increase rates.Avistas operating costs and investments are
going up.They are striving to provide good and efficient energy products and services.
However,these fixed monthly charge increases are not very smart,for both Avista and for us
consumers,for the following reasons:
1.The basic monthly charge increases provide no incentive to reduce energy usage,
peak demand,and the need for new energy investment.They do nothing to ensure a
more sustainable energy future;
2.These basic monthly charge increases are onerous and regressive.Low and fixed
income consumers with a small efficient residence take the same hit as the “one
percenters”living in mansions on the lake.
Avista is not being fair or wise.Avista can do much more to ensure a more sustainable business
and a more sustainable energy future.
PS,I have no problem with the increase in charges for energy usaQe,assuming it is justified by
their costs and investments.Consumers have control over their energy usage and they can deal
with it in several ways.
PSS,Please consider this an open letter to the public.I plan to submit this to some local
newspapers.
Thanks for reading and for considering this comment.
Si
2082638320 08/3112015 15:52 #240 P.001/001
William E.Stuble