Avista to Lead Smart Grid Project in Pullman

Avista’s portion of the matching funds will be $12.9 million. The project involves automation of many parts of the electric distribution system using advanced metering, enhanced utility communication and other elements of smart grid technologies.

Once the work is completed, customers in the City of Pullman and the nearby Town of Albion are expected to experience greater reliability, shorter outage times and access to their own energy use information, allowing them to better manage energy expenses.

"This project will demonstrate the viability of modernizing our electric system with proven technology, and it will prepare us for things to come in the future," said Scott Morris, Avista chairman, president and CEO. "I have to especially thank Senator Maria Cantwell for her outstanding leadership in making smart grid a national priority," Morris added.

"I would also like to express my appreciation to the rest of our congressional delegation and to Governor Chris Gregoire for their support on this initiative."The project is expected to help move the region and the nation closer to establishing a more efficient and effective electricity infrastructure that is intended to help contain costs, reduce emissions, incorporate more wind power and other types of renewable energy, increase power grid reliability and provide greater flexibility for consumers.

Work is expected to begin by the end of 2009 and should be completed in 2014.

Avista Corp. is an energy company involved in the production, transmission and distribution of energy as well as other energy-related businesses. Avista Utilities is our operating division that provides electric service to 355,000 homes and businesses and natural gas to 312,000 homes and businesses in three Western states, serving more than 492,000 customers.

Avista’s primary, non-regulated subsidiary is Advantage IQ. Our stock is traded under the ticker symbol "AVA." For more information about Avista, please visit  www.avistacorp.com.