Docket History
The commission opened Docket U-210590 in response to state law (ESSB 5295). The law requires the commission to explore alternatives to traditional ratemaking, including performance-based approaches.
Key Milestones
- April 12, 2024 – First policy statement issued with guiding principles, goals, and proposed metrics.
- Aug. 2, 2024 – Second policy statement issued with updated metrics and definitions.
- Dec. 2, 2025 – Workshop held to address remaining questions and performance incentive mechanisms (PIMs).
- Jan. 26, 2026 – Policy statement issued to clarify metrics and outline PIM principles.
- June 30, 2026 - Regulatory Assessment Policy Paper issued.
Additional workshops and public comments helped shape each step of this process.
Current Work
The Commission is currently accepting comments regarding the current regulatory system and incentives.
This work looks at how existing tools:
- Interact with multiyear rate plans
- Impact cost control and affordability
- Balance customer benefits and utility financial health
Comments are due by October 9, 2026. A workshop will be held on Thursday, December 17, 2026, to discuss all feedback.
Upcoming Timeline
All dates are tentative and may change.
| Date | Activity |
|---|---|
| October 9, 2026 | Public comments due |
| December 17, 2026 | Workshop on policy paper |
| December 2026 to January 2027 | Additional comment opportunity |
| First quarter 2027 | Final policy statement issued |
How to Participate
There are several ways to stay involved in this work:
- Submit written comments during open comment periods
- Attend workshops and listen to discussions
- Review the policy paper and supporting materials
Check this page regularly for updates and opportunities to participate.
Submit Comments
Comments must be submitted via the Commission's e-filing portal. If you are unable to submit comments via the portal, you may submit your comments by email to the Commission's Records Center by emailing Records@utc.wa.gov or by mailing an electronic copy to the Commission's Records Center on a flash drive, DVD, or compact dis that includes the filed document(s). Comment submissions should include: (1) the docket number of this proceeding Docket U-210590, (2) the commenting party's name, and (3) the title and date of the comment(s).