Power, natural gas can’t be fully disconnected in Alberta through colder months under new rules

Alberta says a new utility initiative will make sure vulnerable residents don’t lose heat or power during the cold months.

From Oct. 15 to April 15, electricity and natural gas services in Alberta can’t be fully disconnected by retailers, thanks to Alberta’s Winter Rules for Utilities.

This also applied to any time during the year when the forecast for the next 24 hours indicates temperatures below zero degrees, the province says.

“During Alberta’s harsh winters, no one should be forced to choose between heating and eating. We’re keeping the lights on for the most vulnerable and taking action to lower power bills for all Albertans. I encourage anyone having difficulties with their utility bill to contact the Utilities Consumer Advocate and learn what options are available,” said Minister of Affordability and Utilities, Nathan Neudorf.

The province also operates a Winter Utilities Reconnection Program, where customers with disconnected utilities are contacted to help them get reconnected before the cold weather arrives. This program is run by the Utilities Consumer Advocate (UCA), in partnership with the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC), utility retailers and distributors and other government agencies.

Albertans who are having difficulty with paying their utility bills, communicating with their retailer, or making manageable payment arrangements should contact the UCA.

The province also recently introduced new local access fee legislation and changed the name of the Regulated Rate Option, to the Rate of Last Resort.