Power prices in Alberta have more than doubled in the last year according to the latest Policy Trends report from the University of Calgary's School of Public Policy. Recent spikes to utility bills have led us to explore policies that exacerbate the never-ending cycling of unaffordable bills, arrears and disconnection for some Calgarians. As part of the Alberta Energy Poverty Roundtable we're asking questions like:
- Why is Alberta the only province that doesn’t have a program to help those living on low incomes make their homes more energy efficient?
- Natural gas rebates recently announced by the province are welcome, but could rate caps have prevented some of the hardships that many are experiencing now?
- Extra disconnection and reconnection fees on top of arrears can be a huge barrier for lower income Calgarians to get their utility services on track. Are these fees really necessary?
During the colder winter months, power companies across the province don’t disconnect their customers for non-payment. Instead, they install a load limiter which enables a furnace fan and a few lights to work. Last week this “winter season” ended, and utility companies will now begin the full disconnection process. With as many as 1,000 ENMAX customers at risk of having their power and heat cut off, finding solutions needs to be a priority.
VCC’s executive director had a chance to discuss these issues in two interviews last week. Check out CityNews Calgary’s Some Albertans could lose power as the province’s moratorium ends Friday and CTV’s Heat, power could be shut off on Friday for Alberta households behind on utility bills.
Resources
- CBC explored what’s leading to the high power prices in Alberta and what can be done.
- The Utilities Consumer Advocate has compiled a number of agencies who can help if you or someone you know is experiencing financial difficulties.
- Did you know one in five Albertans lives in energy poverty? Check out Exploring energy poverty to learn more.
- Check out this recording of a CBC panel discussing tackling utility bills.
