Media contact: media@utc.wa.gov or 360-664-1116
Docket number: UE-260208
LACEY, Wash. — The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC) is holding a virtual public comment hearing on Oct. 20 to get customer input on a proposed sale of PacifiCorp’s Washington service area and a transfer of its Washington assets to Portland General Electric Company (PGE) and Gem Sub LLC (Gem).
WHO
Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission
WHAT
A virtual public comment hearing. This gives customers a chance to share how the proposed changes impact them and their communities before the commission makes a final decision.
WHEN and WHERE
6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 20
Join by Zoom (recommended) or by phone 253-215-8782 and use Meeting ID: 875 0909 7768# and Passcode: 144101#.
You can also submit written comments at any time while the case is open:
- online,
- by phone at 888-333-9882,
- by email at comments@utc.wa.gov, and
- by mail to P.O Box 47250, Olympia, WA 98504-7250
Free language services are available. Please request them at least one week before the meeting by calling 360-664-1193 or emailing equity@utc.wa.gov.
BACKGROUND
In March 2026, PacifiCorp and PGE filed an application to allow the transfer of service territory and sale of PacifiCorp assets. If the commission approves the request, PGE and its financial partner Manulife will purchase certain PacifiCorp Washington-based power generation facilities and equipment. A new, independent utility (currently named Gem) will be formed and provide service to PacifiCorp’s current customers in Washington. Together, PGE and Gem will manage daily operations and serve Washington customers.
To get updates on this case, ask to join the "interested persons" email list by emailing records@utc.wa.gov. Please include the docket number if you can.
About PacifiCorp
Portland-based PacifiCorp is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Energy, which is headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa. PacifiCorp operates through its Pacific Power division, providing electric service to over 137,000 customers in Southcentral and Southeastern Washington.
About PGE and Gem
PGE is an integrated electric utility based in Portland, Oregon, serving nearly one million customers in Oregon. Gem is a placeholder name for the new proposed utility that will serve Washington customers if the commission approves this transaction.
About the UTC
The UTC regulates investor-owned electric and natural gas utilities in Washington. The commission ensures regulated companies provide safe, equitable, and reliable service to customers at reasonable rates, while earning a fair profit.