Reliability, rates at forefront as Chelan PUD eyes big power users

WENATCHEE — Chelan County Public Utility District (PUD) customers have voiced concerns about reliability and rate affordability as the utility considers a framework for evaluating large power requests.

The PUD received input from about a dozen customer owners through various channels after its Board of Commissioners sought public comment on a proposed framework to guide responses to large-load requests. These requests come from industries such as data centers, manufacturing plants, and other power-intensive operations.

Mike Bradshaw, the PUD's director of energy structuring and trading, said many of the issues raised were considered when developing the guiding principles for the framework. These principles focus on maintaining reliability, stable rates, and local control while treating large-load customers consistently.

The proposed framework offers three options for serving large-load customers:

1. Short-term supply where Chelan PUD procures and resells wholesale energy.
2. Customer choice allowing large-load customers to identify energy sources for PUD purchase and resale.
3. Negotiated contracts that may include Chelan PUD generation, subject to board approval.

Each arrangement would require board approval and recover power and delivery costs.

The utility continues to receive an increasing number of large load requests, mirroring a national trend in data center growth. In September, commissioners will review a proposed plan to serve Microsoft and updates to the PUD's rate schedule for large loads.

Chelan PUD also plans to host three community meetings in late August and early September regarding a proposed two-year extension of previously adopted 3-4% rate increases.

The utility emphasizes that all decisions will prioritize the interests of existing Chelan County customers, focusing on maintaining reliable service and stable rates.