Opponents of the initiative argue that blocking the natural gas ban will lead to higher gas bills

Opponents of Initiative 2066, which aims to ensure natural gas remains an energy choice in Washington state, have released a new report saying gas bills will rise if voters pass the measure.

Proponents of I-2066 argue otherwise, arguing that if voters reject the measure, energy bills will rise.

In its report, Climate Solutions reviewed a study earlier this year by Synapse Energy Economics that found I-2066 could increase utility bills in Washington by $150 or more per year by 2035 and double them by 2050.

Climate Solutions’ argument suggests that with gas consumption already declining in the state and more people opting for electric appliances, there will be fewer gas customers who will have to pay higher monthly energy bills to maintain the gas system.

“Allowing natural gas companies to effectively manage and plan for transition costs will reduce future risks and costs for natural gas customers,” said William Gehrke, senior technical analyst at NW Energy Coalition.

Proponents of Prop 2066 say voting to pass I-2066 is the best way to prevent rising energy costs now and in the future.

“Anti-choice people are desperately spreading misinformation to defeat I-2066 and limit access to cheap and reliable natural gas,” said Greg Lane, executive vice president of the Washington Building Industry Association. “We urge voters to look at the facts and vote yes on I-2066 to preserve natural gas as a less expensive and more reliable energy choice.”

BIAW notes that according to an Oct. 17 report from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, the cost of electricity is more than three times that of natural gas.

I-2066 is a response to House Bill 1589, which was passed this legislative session and signed into law by Governor Jay Inslee. This will allow Puget Sound Energy, which serves more than 500,000 retail natural gas customers, to begin planning to phase out natural gas.

Center Square has reached out to several other utility providers in the state for comment on I-2066.

Headquartered in Spokane, Avista Utilities serves more than 250,000 customers in Eastern Washington. In its four-state service area, Avista provides electricity to nearly 418,000 customers and natural gas to approximately 382,000 customers.

“We appreciate the intentions and goals of Initiative 2066,” Avista spokeswoman Annie Gannon wrote to The Center Square in an email. “For supporters of this initiative, the freedom to choose energy options that suit individual preferences is critical. We share this opinion.”

Gannon explained the company’s reasoning.

“Avista remains steadfast in its commitment to actively pursue a low-carbon energy future, and Washington and Oregon state laws expect us to achieve significant emissions reductions over time,” she said. “We believe it is critical to strike a balance between protecting the environment and maintaining an energy supply that is affordable and reliable for our customers, especially during the colder months. Achieving this balance can be difficult if state laws do not provide the necessary flexibility.”

She suggested moving forward with bipartisan energy policy is the best approach.

“Such policies will ensure our ability to provide customers with reliable and affordable energy into the future while reducing emissions,” Gannon said. “Whether voters approve or reject I-2066, we look forward to continuing our engagement on this important issue with the Legislature and stakeholders, always keeping the needs and interests of our clients at the forefront of our approach.”

Center Square also reached out to several other service providers.

The Snohomish County PUD declined to comment, saying it does not take a position on the ballot initiatives, and Tacoma Public Utilities did not respond to a request for comment.