Advantage IQ Completes SAS 70 Type II Audit

Service Auditors' Report assists clients with Sarbanes Oxley compliance

SPOKANE, Wash. – Jan. 25, 2006 – Advantage IQ, a subsidiary of Avista Corp. (NYSE: AVA), recently completed an American Institute of Certified Public Accountants' (AICPA) Statement on Auditing Standards (SAS) No. 70 Type II Audit. A SAS 70 audit, or service auditor's examination, is widely recognized, because it represents that a service organization has been through an in-depth audit of their control activities, which generally include controls over information technology and related processes. In today's global economy, service organizations or service providers must demonstrate that they have adequate controls and safeguards when they host or process data belonging to their customers. In addition, the requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 make SAS 70 audit reports even more important to the process of reporting on effective internal controls at service organizations.

By undergoing the SAS 70 audit, Advantage IQ can provide its clients with a comprehensive audit report that assists its clients with Sarbanes 404 compliance requirements. For this audit, Advantage IQ retained the services of independent auditing firm Deloitte & Touche, LLP, a nationally recognized firm. During the audit, Deloitte & Touche tested the operating effectiveness of internal controls over the handling of client funds, network and data transmission security, system monitoring and many other areas.

"Managing client data in a secure, effective and accurate manner is the cornerstone of our business", said Advantage IQ President and CEO Stu Stiles. "Undergoing a voluntary SAS 70 audit demonstrates the strength of our company and our commitment to maintaining the highest standards in our processes and controls over the services we provide to our clients. This audit report will assist our clients in complying with Sarbanes Oxley requirements related to internal control documentation. We continue to strive to maintain the highest standards in the industry."

Advantage IQ provides facility cost management services to more than 350 of the largest multi-site organizations in America, including invoice management, auditing, analysis and comprehensive reporting services. Advantage clients utilize the company's patented Facility IQ system to gain insight into utility, telecom and waste expenses, allowing them to effectively manage and understand their costs. Advantage continues to add to its customer base with an overall growth rate of 35 percent over the past year, including significant additions in the food service, entertainment and retail service sectors.