Rising prices for natural gas and increased demand for energy-efficiency rebates has Avista Utilities asking for higher rates in Idaho. The Spokane-based utility is seeking a 0.9 percent increase in residential electric rates and 7.5 percent hike in residential natural gas rates, beginning Oct. 1. The request was filed today with the Idaho Public Utilities Commission, which must approve any rate changes. After falling to record lows in 2012, natural gas rates began climbing this year. The natural gas rate request is based on higher wholesale gas prices, which account for about 55 percent of a customer’s bill, said Jessie Wuerst, an Avista spokeswoman/Becky Kramer, SR. More here.

Question: Is there any headline more predictable than "Avista seeks higher rates"?