As state works to finalize 100 percent clean energy law, Avista says it will hit that goal by 2045

As state lawmakers were expected to finalize a law requiring utilities to get to 100 percent clean energy by 2045, Avista announced Thursday, April 18, that it would commit to that goal.

In an announcement the utility says it plans to hit a 100 percent carbon-neutral supply of electricity by the end of 2027.

"We’re proud to announce this 100 percent clean electricity goal as an important step forward in caring for our environment while continuing to meet the energy needs of our customers and communities today and well into the future," Dennis Vermillion, president of Avista, said in the announcement. "Just in the last three years, we’ve implemented three renewable energy projects on behalf of our customers. Our Community Solar project in Spokane Valley, Washington, Solar Select project in Lind, Washington, and the Rattlesnake Flat Wind project in Adams County, Washington, together have allowed us to add to the clean electricity we already provide, meet the energy needs of our customers without increasing their bills and drive economic vitality in these communities."

Last month, Idaho Power, which serves the highest population areas in Idaho, also announced it would voluntarily commit to get 100 percent of its electricity from clean resources by 2045.

Lawmakers were expected Thursday to reach concurrence on SB 5116, which passed both the Senate and the House and will require all utilities in the state of Washington to hit similar goals. Most will be 100 percent carbon-neutral by 2030, with a few exceptions that would go away after 2045.

"As we plan for the future, listen to our customers and continue to invest in renewable energy resources, we recognize the value of establishing a defined clean electricity goal," Vermillion said. "We are committed to continuing our investments in research, development and a smarter grid to support the trend of lower costs and improved technology that will enable a clean electricity future. We are well on our way to achieving our goal of 100 percent clean electricity and will continue to engage with our customers, partners and regulators to make this goal a reality."