4.36% rate hike approved for FortisBC power consumers – BC News

FortisBC has received interim approval from the BCUC to increase its normal electricity rates by 4.36% in 2021.

This change will increase the average customer who uses about 12,000 kilowatt hours per year by their monthly bills by 30 7.30 per month.

“We try to work efficiently and keep rates as low as possible,” said Diane Roy, vice president of regulatory affairs at FortisBC. “However, growth is sometimes needed, so FortisBC can make the necessary system improvements and long-term investments that will ensure that our customers always have the energy they need when they need it.”

The privately-owned utility plans to spend M72 million next year on improving electric infrastructure.

This includes annual investments made by the company to work on its pole structures, power lines and equipment, as well as multi-year upgrade projects. Currently, FortisBC is undergoing a large-scale upgrade to two hydropower facilities, and plans to upgrade its three substations and ancillary transmission lines by 2021.

These rates are acceptable on an interim, repayable basis. The BCUC final decision on permanent rates is expected in early 2021.