Avista (NYSE:AVA) operates as an integrated energy company providing electric and natural gas delivery services to residential, commercial and industrial customers in the Pacific Northwest. Through its regulated utility operations, the company maintains and upgrades an extensive transmission and distribution network, delivering reliable energy to approximately 400,000 electric customers and 324,000 natural gas customers across Washington, Oregon and Idaho. In addition to its core utility business, Avista invests in owned generation assets, including hydroelectric, natural gas–fired, coal and wind facilities, to support system reliability and long-term supply planning.
Founded in 1889 as the Spokane and Inland Empire Water Power Company, the business adopted the Avista name in 1999 to reflect its growing energy portfolio and strategic focus on innovation. Over the years, Avista has expanded its generation mix and introduced advanced grid technologies such as automated metering infrastructure and distribution system automation. The company’s energy efficiency programs and demand-response initiatives aim to help customers manage usage and reduce overall system peak loads.
Avista’s service territory spans roughly 97,000 square miles, encompassing urban and rural communities across its three-state footprint. The utility employs approximately 1,800 professionals in functions ranging from field operations and engineering to customer service and regulatory affairs. Leadership is headed by President and Chief Executive Officer Scott L. Morris, who has overseen efforts to modernize grid infrastructure, strengthen resiliency and advance renewable energy integration since his appointment in 2016.
Committed to sustainability and community engagement, Avista supports economic development, environmental stewardship and charitable initiatives throughout its service areas. The company continues to pursue long-term strategic priorities, including grid decarbonization, deployment of distributed energy resources and partnerships that foster cleaner, more reliable energy solutions for its customers and stakeholders.
