Avista Corporation

Avista Corporation, an energy company, engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of energy and energy-related businesses in the United States and Canada. The company operates through two segments, Avista Utilities and Advantage IQ. The Avista Utilities segment engages in the generation, transmission, and distribution of electric energy primarily from hydroelectric and thermal sources. This segment also distributes natural gas to retail customers in parts of eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and parts of northeast and southwest Oregon, as well as engages in wholesale purchase and sale of electricity and natural gas. As of December 31, 2009, it provided retail electric service to approximately 356,000 customers; and retail natural gas service to approximately 316,000 customers. This segment offers electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The Advantage IQ segment provides utility expense management solutions to assess and manage utility costs and usage to multi-site companies in North America. It offers invoice processing, auditing and payment services, energy procurement, reporting, and advanced analysis, as well as provides analytical support, reporting, and consulting services. In addition, Avistas other investments and operations include sheet metal fabrication of electronic enclosures, parts, and systems for the computer, telecom, renewable energy, and medical industries; real estate investments, primarily commercial office buildings; and investments in venture capital funds and low income housing. The company was founded in 1889 and is headquartered in Spokane, Washington.