Exhibit 23.1--Consent of Independent Auditors

We consent to the use of our report dated August 15, 1996, incorporated by 
reference in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) of Energy West Incorporated for 
the year ended June 30, 1996 and the Registration Statement on Form S-3 and 
related Prospectus pertaining to the Dividend Reinvestment Plan, with respect 
to the consolidated financial statements, as amended, and the related 
financial statement schedule, as amended, included in this Form 10-K/A1.


                                                 /s/ ERNST & YOUNG LLP
                                                 --------------------------
                                                 ERNST & YOUNG LLP

Denver, Colorado
July 3, 1997


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