Klickitat PUD has raised its rates with the start of the year.  During its 2023 rate review, the PUD found the impact due to increases in cost related to wholesale power markets was 9%, so the PUD elected to gradually raise rates over three years, resulting in 3% increases last year, this year, and in 2025.  Percentage increases will vary by rate class and component, but the PUD says the average residential customer will see an increase of $5.37 per month.  The PUD says regional wholesale power markets continue to see reduced supply and increased demand, raising concerns about power availability at peak times and during extreme weather conditions.  The PUD says it has usually aimed for an electric system built with excess capacity.  But due to load growth, as expected with the regulatory policy push towards electrification, the excess capacity is depleted and Klickitat PUD needs to build additional system capacity.  Rate revenues will go up by 4.5%.  Rate changes assessed and approved annually through public process.  The 2024 portion was approved during a hearing in December.