Oregon Regulator to Probe PacifiCorp’s Liability Limit Request After Wildfires

Oregon’s utility regulator is set to conduct a thorough investigation into PacifiCorp’s petition to limit its liability from potential future wildfire-related lawsuits. This decision comes after the power provider, a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, requested regulators in five states to cap damages linked to wildfires caused by utilities. The request was made following an Oregon jury’s decision that ordered PacifiCorp to pay a minimum of $87 million for four wildfires that damaged over 2,400 properties in 2020.

PacifiCorp argues that limiting liability is crucial for maintaining reasonable rates and financing future expenses. However, the Oregon Public Utility Commission (OPUC) has decided to delay its decision on this matter by up to nine months for a detailed investigation. The OPUC staff highlighted the proposal’s significant policy and legal implications, stating that a comprehensive investigation is necessary and cannot be completed by PacifiCorp’s proposed effective date.

The Portland-based utility, serving 2 million customers across Oregon, Washington, California, Utah, Idaho, and Wyoming, has seen its litigation costs affect the third-quarter profits of its parent company, Berkshire Hathaway’s energy business.