{"id":971759,"date":"2026-06-12T16:09:17","date_gmt":"2026-06-12T20:09:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marketnewsdesk.com\/index.php\/avista-pauses-processing-of-energy-service-request-from-500-mw-data-center-developer-while-seeking-broader-policy-and-community-alignment\/"},"modified":"2026-06-12T16:09:17","modified_gmt":"2026-06-12T20:09:17","slug":"avista-pauses-processing-of-energy-service-request-from-500-mw-data-center-developer-while-seeking-broader-policy-and-community-alignment","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.marketnewsdesk.com\/index.php\/avista-pauses-processing-of-energy-service-request-from-500-mw-data-center-developer-while-seeking-broader-policy-and-community-alignment\/","title":{"rendered":"Avista pauses processing of energy service request from 500 MW data center developer while seeking broader policy and community alignment"},"content":{"rendered":"

\nEmphasis remains on commitment to transparency, customer protection and community engagement
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SPOKANE, Wash., June 12, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Avista announced today it is taking additional time to evaluate the processing of energy requests from new large data center developers as it seeks to partner with governmental agencies on creating a clear and coordinated planning process and as the company considers additional stakeholder feedback.<\/p>\n

Negotiations concerning energy service to this potential data center are now paused. The decision follows recent community interest and concern related to Avista\u2019s previously announced Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the new 500MW data center developer.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve heard the questions and concerns from our customers, community members and local leaders, and we take that feedback seriously,\u201d said Heather Rosentrater, Avista President and CEO. \u201cThis input has demonstrated a need for a broader coordinated planning effort, which Avista will actively participate in. As a regional energy provider, we are just one part of the project development process. We recognize that we need more time to align with our partners and communities in a way that is transparent, thoughtful and in the best long-term interest of our region.\u201d<\/p>\n

As a regulated utility, Avista is required to review requests for service, including large proposals like this. At the same time, the developer must secure all necessary permits for their project. No single entity decides if a project will proceed\u2014multiple reviews and approvals are needed before a project may move forward.<\/p>\n

Avista remains committed to collaborating with local leaders, regulators and community members. These conversations will help inform how large data center requests are considered moving forward and ensure alignment with broader regional priorities. For over 137 years, Avista has served large load energy customers that help support the economic health and vitality of the region.<\/p>\n

What\u2019s new now is the scale of the data center requests and level of public interest. These unprecedented projects require new considerations for planning and coordination for all entities involved.<\/p>\n

Avista\u2019s approach to providing energy service to any potential large data center development remains grounded in clear principles:<\/p>\n