Brenda here from Spokane. Avista's 2026 rate increase was 7.9% but they significantly enhanced their demand response programs. The new Schedule 449 (Commercial Demand Response) offers up to $25/kW-month for load curtailment capability. With the higher base rates, the demand response credits are becoming much more attractive.
Avista 2026 rates - demand response credits getting better
Brenda - I enrolled three clients in the enhanced DR program. The credit is good but the curtailment requirements are more stringent. They can call for reduction up to 100 hours annually instead of the old 50-hour limit. Make sure clients understand the commitment before signing up.
Nancy's right about the increased curtailment hours. But at $25/kW-month, a client with 200kW curtailment capability earns $5,000/month just for being enrolled. Even if they get called 100 hours per year, that's $50/hour for load reduction. Pretty good deal for the right type of operation.
Greg makes a good point about the math working for the right clients. I enrolled a cold storage facility with 400kW curtailment capability. They're earning $10,000/month in credits and can easily curtail by reducing compressor operation for a few hours when called. Their ROI on the DR equipment was under 18 months.