Timeline and Participation

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.

Additional workshops and public comments helped shape each step of this process.

Current Work

Commission policy staff are reviewing 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

This review will result in a policy paper with recommendations for possible changes to the regulatory structure.

The policy paper is expected in June 2026. After that, the commission will gather feedback from utilities, interested parties, and the public before making decisions.

Upcoming Timeline

All dates are tentative and may change.

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

Information about open comment opportunities will be posted on this page when available.