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Alberta introducing new electricity regulations

Apr 18, 2024 | 1:34 PM

The provincial government is introducing new regulations to make electricity more affordable.

Under the new regulations set to be introduced this spring, default electricity rates will be stabilized by being set for each provider every two years.

The province says this will significantly reduce spikes in prices for Albertans unable to sign a competitive contract, including rural Albertans who may not have other options available, and those who have poor credit or other financial difficulties such as seniors and other vulnerable populations.

Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Affordability and Utilities said, “Utility bills can make or break a tight budget where every penny counts, which is why we’re protecting those with limited options from sudden spikes in electricity prices. This will also make life more affordable for all Albertans as it puts downward pressure the price of utilities.”

The Alberta government intends to introduce legislation this spring to rename the default electricity rate to the Rate of Last Resort. It is currently named the Regulated Rate Option (RRO), which the province says misleads consumers into a false sense of protection.

They add that by changing the name to the Rate of Last Resort, consumers will be able to better understand the rate they are paying and encourage them to find the best option for them.