Winter heating costs expected to surge

SPOKANE – As national heating costs are set to rise by over 10% this winter, Avista and other utilities are bracing for increased demand and expanding its customer assistance programs.

Avista estimates electricity-based heating costs will increase by 13.6% over the 2023-24 winter.

In addition to bill assistance, Avista provides tools like energy-saving tips, rebates and home energy audits, according to Ana Matthews, the Energy Efficiency Program Master with Avista. Residents concerned about rising heating costs can also access various state programs.

The Washington Utilities and Transportation...