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NEWPORT – The commissioners for Pend Oreille Public Utility District No. 1 unanimously passed their 2025 budget of $80.9 million, up from last year’s budget of $76.9 million.
According to PUD finance director April Owen, the increase is due to more capital projects and positions and technology for wildfire prevention.
The $80.9 million budget prioritizes investments in system reliability, wildfire mitigation, regulatory compliance, and workforce development to meet the evolving needs of the PUD’s customers and the challenges of the energy industry, according to a news release from the PUD.
“This budget allows us to continue delivering safe, reliable, and affordable services while preparing for future demands and regulatory changes,” said Joseph Onley, board president. “Our focus remains on serving the community responsibly and sustainably.” Key Investments and Initiatives
1. Capital Investments The 2025 budget allocates significant funding for essential infrastructure upgrades. Key projects include: Meter Replacement Program: The final phase of a system-wide upgrade to replace outdated and unsupported equipment.
New Substation Design: Development of a substation to support growing energy demand, ensuring the system can keep pace with local growth and future needs. Reliability upgrades to poles, conductors, and other essential components.
2. Wildfire Mitigation Efforts Recognizing the increasing threat of wildfires, the budget dedicates resources to proactive measures, including: Adding two new vegetation management positions to ensure safe distances are maintained between power lines and potential fire risks.
Moving targeted overhead lines in high-risk areas underground.
Installing new technology to improve the district’s ability to quickly detect and respond to system issues.
3. Regulatory Compliance and Sustainability The budget addresses the growing impact of federal and state regulations, such as the Washington Clean Energy Transformation Act (CETA) and the Climate Commitment Act (CCA). Investments include compliance initiatives to ensure safe, reliable service and avoid costly penalties.
4. Workforce Development and Succession Planning The PUD will expand its workforce in 2025 to address succession planning, regulatory demands, and operational challenges. The budget includes funding for: Training programs to ensure a smooth transfer of knowledge as key employees retire.
Competitive wage adjustments to attract and retain skilled employees.
Additional staff to support the district’s long-term goals and critical initiatives.
Looking Ahead
The budget also lays the groundwork for a 10-year financial forecast, with preliminary projections indicating a need for modest annual rate adjustments starting mid-2025 to offset rising costs, increasing energy demand, and regulatory requirements.
“This budget is not just about the numbers; it’s about investing in the systems, services, and people that ensure the reliability and affordability of our operations,” said General Manager John Janney. “We are committed to serving the community with integrity and foresight.”
For more details about the 2025 budget, visit www. popud.org or contact the PUD at 509-447-3137.
