HP Enterprise Services has announced Avista Corporation, a Washington-based public utility, has signed a seven-year technology and applications outsourcing renewal agreement to help with its ongoing transition into a digital utility.

As an HP client for almost two decades, Avista, which serves three western states, looks to HP to manage most of its major enterprise systems as well as its data center and workplace environments.

“Along with the rest of the utilities industry, we’re transforming ourselves with digital and smart grid technology while also keeping the lights on and gas flowing for our 359,000 electric and 319,000 natural gas customers,” said Jim Kensok, vice president and chief information officer, Avista. “HP partners with Avista applying its deep applications, technology and industry knowledge to further our digital journey while keeping an eye on managing costs.”

HP will continue to provide Applications Management Services for Avista’s enterprise applications portfolio, including its customer information and work management systems. Under the agreement, HP also will provide Applications Modernization Services that will help replace some of Avista’s custom applications, improving efficiency and creating a path for Avista to continue operating among the lowest cost utilities in the United States.