Another year, another rate increase for FortisBC customers across the South Okanagan.
FortisBC announced last week it has completed its annual rates review with the BC Utilities Commission (BCUC) and has received approval from the BCUC for a 1.6 per cent increase effective August 1, 2015.
The utility company says the increase is necessary to make upgrades and improvements to the electrical system and to purchase added capacity for the system. Capacity is needed to provide customers with electricity during peak times of the day and year.
FortisBC’s electricity rates are among the lowest rates in North America and the company is continually working to keep rates as low as possible, says the company.
This includes finding efficiencies and productivity improvements internally.
“We understand that our customers are concerned with the cost of electricity, as it touches everyone’s daily lives,” said Roger Dall’Antonia, executive vice president, customer service and regulatory affairs. “We continue to work internally to find efficiencies and make sure that we deliver safe and reliable electricity at the lowest reasonable cost.”
The BCUC’s rate review also makes permanent the 3.5 per cent interim rate effective January 1, 2015.
Customers interested in learning more about the BC Utilities Commission and annual rates review process can find more information at www.bcuc.com.
If customers would like to learn more about FortisBC electricity rates, visit www.fortisbc.com.
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