Avista Pauses Energy Service Talks With 500-Megawatt Data Center Developer Amid Community Concerns
Avista Utilities has paused negotiations for energy service with a proposed 500-megawatt data center developer in Spokane, Washington. The decision follows significant public concern and protests regarding the project's large energy demands. Avista is seeking broader policy guidance and community input to determine how to handle future large data center requests.
Avista Utilities has announced a halt in energy service negotiations for a proposed 500-megawatt data center project in Spokane, Washington. The Spokane-based utility stated the pause is a direct response to public interest, community concerns, and protests, as depicted by a protest on June 12 regarding Avista's potential data center customer. Avista President and CEO Heather Rosentrater acknowledged the feedback from customers, community members, and local leaders, recognizing the need for a more coordinated planning effort.
The utility is taking additional time to develop a comprehensive approach for evaluating large energy requests from data center developers, a growing trend in the region. Avista emphasized its obligation as a regulated utility to review service requests, while also noting that any data center project would require multiple permits and approvals beyond its scope. The company reiterated its commitment to protecting existing customers from new large-customer costs, maintaining system reliability, and ensuring any service agreement receives regulatory approval and provides net benefits to customers.