One week after the Province announced a $3.9 billion surplus, it has been decided that energy rebates for Albertans will continue to the end of the year.
Back in April, plans began to take shape to provide ratepayers with some sort of relief on the rising cost of utilities. June 22 saw the long-awaited announcement that rebates would be added directly to bills in the form of three $50 credits – for July through to September – a total of $150.
On Wednesday, the Province said it was doubling the rebate by continuing the program through the end of 2022.
“We are doubling the electricity rebate to help reduce the financial burden that many families in Alberta are dealing with due to the rising cost of living," Associate Minister of Natural Gas and Electricity Dale Nally said in a press release.
"This move will help millions of families and business owners pay their bills and keep their lights on while we continue working to build a stronger, more affordable long-term electricity system.”
Ratepayers will now see installments of $50 added directly to their bills beginning this month and ending in December for a total of $300 in rebates.
Any Albertan who has consumer electricity in the last year and is currently connected to services and uses less than 250 megawatt hours per year qualifies for the rebate, regardless of whether they're on the regulated rate option or a competitive rate. Credit will appear on one's bill under the title "GOA Utility Commodity Rebate."
There is still no need to apply for the rebate. However, if a customer believes they qualify for the rebate and don't receive it by the end of July, they are encouraged to contact the Utility Consumer Advocate.
The Province estimates that more than 1.9 million people are eligible for the rebate.
A similar program for natural gas is expected to begin in October and the Province said relief will continue on both utility fronts until March 31, 2023 if prices continue to remain high.
The program is costing the Province approximately $600 million.
