Avista pauses negotiations on data center ahead of City Council vote on moratorium
Avista has announced a pause in negotiations with a data center developer, citing a need for broader coordination and community feedback. This decision coincides with a Spokane City Council vote on an emergency ordinance to enact a one-year moratorium on data centers in the city. Avista also outlined guiding principles for evaluating large data center developments, prioritizing customer protection and system reliability.
Avista, a regulated utility, has announced a halt in negotiations with an unnamed data center developer. The company stated this decision was made to allow for broader coordination with government agencies and to integrate community feedback, emphasizing that the developer still needs to secure all necessary permits. Avista highlighted four guiding principles for evaluating large data center projects: customer protection (ensuring existing customers do not bear the costs of new large customers), system reliability, regulatory approval, and responsible growth that delivers net benefits.
Simultaneously, the Spokane City Council is scheduled to vote today on an emergency ordinance proposing a one-year ban on data centers within the city limits. A council member expressed the urgency of this action, noting concerns about data centers being established in communities nationwide and stating that a moratorium felt "very appropriate." The local news outlet, 4 News Now, will be following the vote and reporting its outcome.